The objective of the AZIMUT project is to generate the knowledge required to develop a highpower offshore wind turbine (15 MW) by 2020, and to overcome the key challenges that currently limit the largescale deployment of offshore wind energy, namely efficiency, availability, energy cost, and capital expenditure. The project includes research into offshore wind energy capture technologies, conversion to electrical energy, structures, construction, operation and maintenance, and integration of offshore wind energy into the power system.
Zinc–air redox flow batteries
Research into the potential of zinc–air redox flow batteries for largescale energy storage and their integration into offshore wind power systems. This emerging technology is characterized by low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness.
Development of new electrodes, membranes, and electrolytes
Research activities include the zinc electrodeposition process in alkaline media, development of new catalysts and electrodes for oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions, and iontransport membranes.
Electrochemical and hydrodynamic process modelling
Modelling and simulation of electrochemical and hydrodynamic processes to support the design and optimization of battery components and systems.
Redox flow battery test bench development
Design and construction of an experimental test facility for the validation of new components and the integrated zinc–air flow battery system under realistic operating profiles representative of offshore wind energy applications.
