Li-Redox Flow Batteries Based on Hybrid Electrolytes: At the Cross Road between Li-ion and Redox Flow Batteries

By moving beyond the classical intercalation chemistry and the conventional redox flow batteries, a variety of new approaches toward high energy density storage are under intensive development. Among them, Li-redox flow batteries stand out as one that combines the existing knowledge of Li-ion batteries with the advantage of redox flow systems, and steps further toward functioning as fuel cells by fueling the cell with an external chemical agent. Following a brief recount of the features of Li-ion and redox flow battery systems, the concept of a Li-redox flow battery, which emerged from a synergy of the two battery systems, is presented.