Self-Healing Peptide Membrane

Objective

Organic redox flow batteries (ORFBs) are emerging as a promising solution for large-scale renewable energy storage, offering safer operation and greater sustainability than traditional redox flow batteries. Despite advances in electrolyte design, the membrane component—responsible for selective ion transport and energy retention—remains underdeveloped. Most commercial membranes are based on synthetic polymers that require complex, energy-intensive production, feature limited recyclability, and are commonly discarded once damaged or fouled. This practice not only drives up operational costs but also contributes to environmental accumulation of persistent fluorinated materials. Therefore, I propose the Self-Healing Peptide Membrane (SHPM) project, which seeks to overcome these challenges by developing a novel, peptide-based ion-selective membrane that is both biodegradable and repairable. The design leverages α-helical peptides to form a porous, nanostructured framework, while dynamic covalent linkages provide reversible connectivity, enabling the membrane to remain stable during battery operation yet reconfigure and heal under mild curing conditions. By introducing a sustainable, self-healing alternative to conventional membranes, SHPM not only advances the performance and economics of ORFB systems but also establishes a new direction in the development of adaptive, environmentally responsible materials for next-generation energy technologies.