In collaboration with Mhor Energy, this project aims to develop, characterise, and understand the behaviour of novel materials able to further enhance the performance of organic redox flow batteries (RFB’s). Within the wide range of solutions required to support the green energy transition, RFB’s are proving to be well-suited for medium- to long-duration energy storage, ideal for domestic, industrial and grid-scale energy storage and supporting renewable energy generation. Whilst lithium- and sodium-ion technologies are well suited to mobile and transport applications, the extended lifespan and stability of redox flow batteries offers the development of much larger scale (MW) energy storage facilities. 

As is the case with any new technology, there is an ongoing need to further improve the economic competitiveness of RFB’s. This includes achieving improvements in energy storage density, thermal stability and long-term usage, while also progressing to cheaper and greener reagents, furthering the sustainability of the materials. Achieving these improvements would directly benefit end users by enhancing performance, lowering costs, and ensuring the technology's compatibility with global sustainability goals. 

To address these challenges a research partnership has been established between Strathclyde chemistry colleagues (Dr Alastair Wark & Dr Catherine Weetman), and Mhor Energy (Dr Declan Bryans and Dr Samuel Booth). This brings together expertise in spectroscopic and analytical methods and their application in electrochemical systems, alongside molecular synthesis and studying the redox properties of novel organometallic materials. Ultimately, this will enable a deeper understanding of the scientific principles underpinning the energy storage capabilities of electrolytes including charge storage mechanisms and introducing analytical methods for further tracking and optimising system performance.  

A unique aspect of the planned studentship programme is the opportunity to progress from prospective electrolyte candidates in the early project stages to application-ready RFB technologies. This will be achieved by leveraging the expertise of academic supervisors alongside continual support from the industrial supervisors. The project will include a 3-month industrial placement at Mhor Energy’s manufacturing site, recognised Project Management training and a diverse range of research training opportunities.