Review of the Research Status of Cost-Effective Zinc–Iron Redox Flow Batteries

Zinc–iron redox flow batteries (ZIRFBs) possess intrinsic safety and stability have been the research focus of electrochemical energy storage technology due to their low electrolyte cost. This review introduces characteristics ZIRFBs which can be operated within a wide pH range, including acidic ZIRFB taking advantage Fen+ with high solubility, alkaline operating at relatively open-circuit potential current densities, neutral providing non-toxic, harmless, mild environment. No matter what kind ZIRFB, there are always zinc dendrites limiting areal capacity on anode, has become an obstacle that must considered in zinc-based RFBs. Therefore, we progress, especially summarizing analysis dendrites, Fe(III) hydrolysis, electrolytes. Given these challenges, this reports optimization electrolyte, electrode, membrane/separator, battery structure, numerical simulations, aiming promote performance development as practical application technology. Based investigations, also provide prospects direction ZIRFBs.