Materials Design and Assessment of Redox-Mediated Flow Cell Systems for Enhanced Energy Storage and Conversion

The transition toward sustainable energy systems necessitates innovations that overcome the limitations of conventional electrochemical systems. Redox-mediated flow cell systems emerge as a transformative paradigm by decoupling energy storage, conversion, and chemical processes from traditional electrode-bound reactions. These systems employ soluble redox mediators to shuttle electrons between electrodes and spatially separated reactive phases (solid, liquid, or gas), thereby enabling unprecedented operational flexibility and scalability. This standpoint underscores the adaptability of redox-mediated electrified systems across a range of applications, encompassing high-energy-density redox targeting-based flow batteries, fuel cells, electrified CO₂ capture, sustainable chemical synthesis, waste recycling, etc. The rational design of redox-active materials is central to their success, with precise alignment of redox potentials, enhanced electron-transfer kinetics, and robust stability underpinning performance. The challenges of new materials development, system durability, and cost-effectiveness can be addressed through advances in experimental measurement, computational modeling, operando characterization, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Moving forward, the integration of redox-mediated technologies with renewable energy systems and industrial processes is predicted to transform energy and chemical landscapes. The integration of laboratory innovations with real-world deployment facilitates a pathway to decarbonization, resource efficiency, and the circular economy. This perspective emphasizes the pivotal functions of redox-mediated architectures in fostering a robust, electrified future, where the convergence of energy storage, environmental stewardship, and sustainable chemical production is pivotal in addressing global challenges.