Abstract: The present invention relates to single chamber fuel cells and systems and methods associated with the same. Architectures and materials that allow for high performance, enhanced fuel utilization, mechanical robustness, and mechanical flexibility are described. In some embodiments, multiple fuel cell units are arranged in a single chamber and may be, in some cases, connected to each other (e.g., connected in series, connected in parallel, etc.). Each fuel cell unit can be defined as one or more anode(s), one or more cathode(s), and an electrolyte able to maintain electrical separation between the anode(s) and cathode(s). The multiple fuel cell units are arranged in stacks in some cases. In one set of embodiments, the stacks of fuel cell units can be shaped and/or arranged to enhance the mixing of fuel and oxidant, thus improving distribution of reactants in the reaction zone. For example, the stacks of fuel cells may be arranged as fins within the fuel cell chamber.

Abstract: An electrochemical system, such as a flow battery, includes a vessel. The vessel contains at least one cell that includes a first electrode, a second electrode and a reaction zone between the first and second electrodes. The vessel also contains a flow circuit configured to deliver a fluid comprising a liquefied halogen reactant and at least one metal halide electrolyte to the at least one cell, and at least one sensor configured to measure a property of the electrochemical system indicative of a state of charge (SOC) of the electrochemical system.