Pfas-Free Membranes for Energy Storage and conversion Systems

Redox Flow Batteries (RFBs) are emerging technologies for large-scale energy storage and are important for climate neutrality, grid stabilization and peak shaving. However, they have their own environmental footprint and can contain hazardous substances such as the 'forever chemicals' PFAS. This project aims to compare, identify and collect data on (potentially) hazardous substances in RFB components, as well as on PFAS-free alternatives (e.g., PEEK or nanocellulose membranes, non-halogenated gaskets, binders or flame retardants, etc.). Information on their technical and environmental performance will be collected in a RFB-specific product inventory, which will form the basis for life cycle considerations. In addition, a laboratory scale release and recycling test will be carried out. This will involve shredding membranes with and without PFAS to simulate recycling and re-granulation processes, during which aerosol measurements will be conducted. The resulting dust (ultra-/fine particles) and regranulates are collected and further tested for toxicity. Tests will include ecotoxicity assessments using zebrafish and Daphnia magna, and human toxicity assessments using lung and skin models. The primary data obtained from the product inventory, release tests and toxicity tests will be used for a chemical footprint assessment (CSA) using USEtox, and for a social life cycle impact assessment. The project results and a stakeholder workshop will be used to derive safe and sustainable by design (SSbD) related key performance indicators and recommendations for sustainable RFB systems free of hazardous substances. The expected results will provide technical guidance to support the production of PFAS-free RFBs to improve occupational health and safety and reduce environmental risks.