Structural Design and Performance Analysis of Inclined Flow-Field Structures for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

To alleviate the high pressure drop, pumping power, and uneven electrolyte distribution of conventional serpentine flow fields, several inclined flow-field configurations were developed. A coupled flow–mass transfer–electrochemical model was employed to evaluate the discharge voltage, pressure drop, and pumping power. At an inlet flow rate of 10?mL/min, the pressure drops of the parallel inclined flow field and the gradient-rib-width inclined flow field decreased by 43.39% and 42.8%, respectively. At 50?mL/min, the lined quartered inclined flow field achieved a 31.6% reduction in pressure drop and a pumping power of 4.48?mW while sustaining a high discharge voltage. Inclined flow fields can reduce flow losses and enhance electrolyte transport, providing a guideline for low-pressure-drop flow-field design.