7 Startups Working on Organic Flow Batteries

As the battery industry is in search of new innovations that drive greater capacity, lower costs, and better sustainability, organic flow batteries have been gaining more attention.

The basic working principle of flow batteries involves two liquid electrolytes, each containing different active elements, which flow through a cell divided by a membrane with the help of a dedicated pump system. The electrolytes store electrical energy in chemical form and circulate through the system from separate tanks. As the electrolytes flow through the cell, they undergo redox reactions, generating a flow of electrons across the membrane that produces electrical power. In organic flow batteries, these electrolytes are composed of organically synthesized molecules, often based on abundant elements like carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which can be engineered to enhance the battery's energy density and efficiency.

What sets organic flow batteries apart from other solutions is their adaptability in molecular design. Scientists can tailor the electrochemical properties of the organic molecules to specific applications, such as tuning the voltage and solubility to maximize the battery's performance and longevity. This flexibility allows for a significant reduction in costs and environmental impact, as these molecules can often be derived from renewable sources and are generally more degradable than their metal-based counterparts.

The potential importance of organic flow batteries lies in their ability to provide large-scale, cost-effective energy storage solutions. They are particularly suited to balancing the grid when integrating intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind. By efficiently storing surplus energy during low demand and releasing it during peak demand, these batteries can help stabilize the power supply and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

As a testament to the growing popularity of organic flow batteries, research indicates that 40% energy storage startups in the last two years have organic flow battery technology listed as their primary or secondary focus area. In this piece, we’ll take a look at seven of the most noteworthy organic flow battery startups in the market today. Read on to learn about seven organic flow battery startups.