VANADIUM PRODUCER BUSHVELD INVESTS IN SCALE UP OF

The hazards of producing vanadium batteries

Comparing Vanadium Redox Flow and Lithium-Ion–Based SystemsHazards Concerns expressed by several groups of stakeholders — property owners, insurance underwriters, fire services, and building code officials — include the risk of overheating through flammable and toxic gas production, thermal runaway, leakage of hazardous materials, and stranded energy in damaged batteries. . Fire Suppression . Flow Batteries . [pdf]

FAQS about The hazards of producing vanadium batteries

How important is safety advice for a vanadium flow battery?

As the global installed energy capacity of vanadium flow battery systems increases, it becomes increasingly important to have tailored standards offering specific safety advice.

Are vanadium redox flow batteries safe?

Safety is becoming more important for companies deploying large batteries. The intrinsic non-flammability of the water-based chemistry of vanadium redox flow batteries makes them ideal for this growing trend, especially in densely populated areas where the safety risk from fire and smoke is greatest.

Why are vanadium batteries so expensive?

Vanadium makes up a significantly higher percentage of the overall system cost compared with any single metal in other battery technologies and in addition to large fluctuations in price historically, its supply chain is less developed and can be more constrained than that of materials used in other battery technologies.

How does cross contamination affect flow battery performance?

As mentioned previously, cross contamination largely affects the overall performance of the flow battery, as the vanadium crossover will react with the opposing vanadium species and will require regeneration . In order to address the above considerations, numerous membranes have been developed.

Is vanadium a fire hazard?

Although the technology presents minimal fire risk, in addition to vanadium, the electrolyte compounds primarily consist of water along with additives such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, which are corrosive and toxic in nature.

Will flow battery suppliers compete with metal alloy production to secure vanadium supply?

Traditionally, much of the global vanadium supply has been used to strengthen metal alloys such as steel. Because this vanadium application is still the leading driver for its production, it’s possible that flow battery suppliers will also have to compete with metal alloy production to secure vanadium supply.