Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a next-generation electrolyte that could change how large-scale energy storage systems are built for solar farms, power grids, and data centres, Solarquarter reported.
The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, describes a new proton-conducting electrolyte designed to improve safety while maintaining efficient charge movement in flow batteries, a technology widely seen as promising for grid-scale energy storage.
Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, which rely on flammable organic electrolytes and mobile lithium ions to carry charge, the newly engineered system allows protons, or hydrogen ions, to move by “hopping” between molecular bonds. This process enables effective charge transport without the need for thin, volatile liquids that can pose fire risks.
Flow batteries are structurally different from lithium-ion systems because they store energy in external tanks filled with electrolyte. Expanding storage capacity requires only larger tanks rather than redesigning the battery core, making the technology suitable for large, multi-megawatt installations. However, traditional electrolytes used in these systems often require a trade-off between conductivity and safety.
The newly developed non-volatile electrolyte addresses this issue. Researchers found that even in thicker, fire-resistant fluids, proton hopping can maintain strong ionic conductivity. This reduces limitations linked to slower ion movement while significantly lowering the risk of flammability.
The team noted that further improvements in chemical solubility will be needed to increase overall energy density. Still, they said the advance lays the groundwork for safer, high-capacity storage systems.
As power grids increasingly rely on solar and wind energy, developments in electrolyte design such as this could play a key role in building safer and more reliable long-duration energy storage at scale.
