Bromine: Alternative to using Lithium and Cobalt in Flow Batteries

Global demand for highly efficient batteries keeps growing. The transition from fossil to renewable energy sources and the rise of electromobility, for example, drive the need for storing and releasing large amounts of energy flexibly, reliably and safely.

A relevant gas could play a major role in mastering this challenge: Hydrogen bromide (HBr). HBr is manufactured by combining hydrogen and bromine at high temperatures. This industrial gas is widely used as a reagent in a number of organic and inorganic chemical reactions. Common applications include electronics, construction (flame retardants), automotive, water treatment, agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals.

Electrolyte for highly efficient batteries

Combined with appropriate reagents, however, HBr forms an electrolyte that allows operating highly efficient flow batteries. Rendering the use of metals such as Lithium and Cobalt unnecessary, it helps minimize adverse environmental impacts and reduce costs.

Redox-flow batteries, in principle, apply the same chemical reactions as conventional lithium-ion batteries and are also rechargeable. A bromine-based flow battery typically consists of one or two tanks separated by a membrane and filled with an electrolyte derived from HBr and/or bromine. Bromine-based flow batteries are highly efficient for energy storage and release.

Safe operational handling is key

Handling HBr and bromine requires specific skills in operational safety as well as specialized equipment for manufacturing advanced intermediates. Our sister company Vynova PPC, integrated into the marketing activities of the WeylChem Group of Companies, operates a dedicated brominated chemicals unit. The team has extensive technical expertise in the synthesis of halogenated compounds based on bromination and in related technologies such as the production of HBr. This setup is sustainable too, as reflected in an EcoVadis Gold Award received in 2022.

By providing access to appropriate assets, technologies and expertise, WeylChem enables customers to produce highly efficient flow batteries, thus contributing to a more sustainable, safe and stable energy supply.

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