Co-design of flow architecture and dynamic stability: A multi-objective topology optimization framework for high-performance, low-noise redox flow batteries

Leila Abdelgader
Advanced Department of Computer Sciences, Taif University–Khurma University College, Al-Khurma 2935, Saudi Arabia

Article ID: 3977

Keywords: computational fluid dynamics (CFD); experimental mechanics; flow-induced vibration; grid-scale energy storage; multi-objective topology optimization; porous electrode transport; redox flow batteries; structural-acoustic analysis

Abstract

This work presents a mathematical framework for the analysis and control of coupled partial differential equations governing transport phenomena in porous vanadium redox flow battery electrodes. The model integrates Brinkman–Forchheimer equations for momentum transport, convection–diffusion–reaction equations for species distribution, and Butler–Volmer kinetics for electrochemical dynamics, forming a strongly coupled nonlinear PDE system with spatially heterogeneous coefficients. Well-posedness of the forward problem is established, and adjoint-based sensitivity analysis is developed for parameter dependence. The core innovation lies in formulating electrode design as an optimal control problem, where the spatially distributed permeability field serves as the control variable optimized under manufacturing and pressure drop constraints. Using the Method of Moving Asymptotes within a topology optimization framework, biomimetic permeability architectures inspired by vascular networks are synthesized. Bifurcation analysis reveals critical thresholds (, ) where the system transitions from uniform to heterogeneous flow regimes, governing both mass transport efficiency and mechanical stability. Stochastic sensitivity analysis over parameter variations confirms robust performance with output deviations below . The optimally controlled permeability field achieves a reduction in concentration variance and a enhancement in net system efficiency. Extending to flow-induced vibration, frequency-domain forced response analysis shows the optimized distribution suppresses vibration acceleration by and reduces acoustic emission by dB(A). This establishes a control-theoretic interpretation: the permeability field functions as an open-loop controller simultaneously optimizing electrochemical performance and passively damping mechanical excitation. The work bridges PDE-constrained optimization, bifurcation theory, and robust control with practical energy storage applications.

Published

2026-07-20

How to Cite

Abdelgader, L. (2026). Co-design of flow architecture and dynamic stability: A multi-objective topology optimization framework for high-performance, low-noise redox flow batteries. Sound & Vibration, 60(4). https://doi.org/10.59400/sv3977

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Vol. 60 No. 4 (2026)

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Article

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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Co-design of flow architecture and dynamic stability: A multi-objective topology optimization framework for high-performance, low-noise redox flow batteries

Abstract

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