On the Rise of Slurry Electrolysis for Energy Applications

Abstract

Slurry electrolysis represents a paradigm shift in diverse electrochemical applications by replacing conventional fixed electrodes with flowable suspensions of electrochemically active particles for scalable energy conversion and storage. In this perspective, we will detail the recent advances of slurry electrolysis in electrocatalysis, semi-solid flow batteries, and flow-electrode capacitive deionization, featuring the fundamental role of the formation of the electro-percolation network in charge transport in these slurry systems. Mechanistic insights into the dynamic evolution of flowable suspension are provided via advanced characterization techniques, including operando EIS, computational fluid dynamics calculations, and in situ imaging. Finally, we will provide a forward-looking perspective in tackling the challenges in electrochemical side reactions and slurry instability for their practical applications.