Bromine-Side Electrode Functionality

Abstract

The previous two chapters dealt with establishing a sound understanding of zinc-related physical and electrochemical processes, with a special focus on controlling electrodeposition in order to achieve optimal performance in the zinc half-cell. A similar approach can be taken for in-depth study of the bromine half-cell, with the aim of developing novel strategies and/or adapting existing methods of optimizing the Br–/Br2 redox to suit the Zn/Br electrochemical environment, thereby significantly improving Zn/Br system performance. This chapter reviews literature pertaining to relevant studies of reactions at the bromine-side electrode (both for within the Zn/Br system as well as different but related environments) to establish strong understanding of the fundamental physical and electrochemical processes that occur during charge and discharge phases of the battery. Materials challenges for conventional Zn/Br systems are highlighted and we review the viability of opportunities to improve electrode functionality through methods such as strategic catalyst doping leading to enhanced electrochemical performance.