Qingdao University's Zinc-Bromine Battery Achieves 700 Cycles, Aiming for Grid Storage Viability
Qingdao University's new zinc-bromine flow battery demonstrates 700 cycles with 98% efficiency, presenting a potential alternative to lithium-ion technology. This development may address lithium shortages but faces challenges in commercial scalability and energy density.
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A zinc-bromine flow battery developed by researchers at Qingdao University has reached 700 charge-discharge cycles with 98% efficiency, outperforming traditional lithium-ion systems. This innovation utilizes a modified electrolyte membrane to mitigate bromine corrosion, a known issue in zinc-bromine technology.
Despite the promising lab results, commercial viability remains uncertain as scaling production and achieving cost parity with lithium-ion batteries are significant hurdles. Current membrane production costs are $50/m², and grid storage applications require capacities over 100 MWh.
The U.S. Department of Energy projects lithium-ion costs may drop to $80/kWh by 2030, which could challenge the adoption of zinc-bromine unless its efficiency and cycle life improve. Pilot plant announcements are anticipated in late 2026.
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