ePROBE

In situ NMR of redox flow batteries

Redox flow batteries are an emerging energy storage technology that plays a central role in the transition to renewable energy. They enable large-scale storage of electricity from intermittent sources such as wind and solar, helping to balance supply and demand on the grid. Their unique design, where energy is stored in liquid electrolytes outside the cell, offers advantages like long cycle life, flexible scalability, and enhanced safety.
To advance this technology, it is crucial to understand the complex electrochemical reactions occurring within the battery. Techniques such as operando NMR provide direct insights into active species, reaction intermediates, and degradation pathways. This knowledge supports the development of more stable electrolytes and efficient electrode materials, ultimately leading to longer-lasting and more cost-effective energy storage solutions.

The eREACTOR NMR probe has been specially designed for the operando analysis of redox-flow batteries and other flow electrochemistry systems. It is offered by ePROBE in collaboration with Radboud University and Prof. Evan W. Zhao's group. Thanks to its integrated parallel line detector, the eREACTOR enables the spatially selective analysis of the processes at the electrode-electrolyte interfaces.

Redox-flow battery systems can also be investigated using ePROBE's standard static in situ NMR probes. These probes are equipped with flow inlets and outlets that connect the bottom of the probe to the coil region at the top, allowing seamless integration of flowing electrolytes Our in situ cells with flow option are fully compatible with the ID11 solenoid coils of these probes, providing a versatile solution for operando studies.

Please contact us if you want to learn how ePROBE can help you with the operando NMR analysis of your system.

In situ NMR of electrocatalytic reactions

Electrocatalysis plays a key role in clean energy technologies like ammonia production, CO₂ reduction and fuel cells, which are key to a sustainable fuel production and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Efficient electrocatalysts are essential to lower energy input, improved selectivity and faster reaction rates.
Operando NMR is a powerful tool to study electrocatalytic reactions under working conditions, which is critical for progress. It detects intermediates and products directly in the electrolyte or at the catalyst surface. This insight helps uncover reaction mechanisms and guide the design of better catalysts.

The eREACTOR NMR probe has been specifically developed for the investigation of electrocatalytic and other flow electrochemical systems. It is made available through ePROBE in collaboration with Radboud University and Prof. Evan W. Zhao's group. The design incorporates a parallel line detector within the reactor, allowing spatially resolved NMR measurements of processes occurring at the electrode–electrolyte interface, as described in this recent publication.

Electrocatlytic systems can also be studied using ePROBE's standard static in situ NMR probes. These probes provide flow in- and outlets that connect the lower part of the probe to the coil region at the top. For such configurations, the in situ cells with flow option are compatible with ID11 solenoid coils, enabling straightforward integration for continuous-flow experiment.

Please contact us if you want to learn how ePROBE can help you with the operando NMR analysis of your system.

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