Flow-nano is an Italian start-up founded in 2023, originating as a spin-off from X-nano and the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT). The company specializes in nanotechnology-based solutions, focusing on developing advanced nanostructured electrodes for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). Flow-nano aims to increase the efficiency and reduce the cost of redox flow batteries, making them more reliable and competitive for the Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) market.
The company operates as a component supplier for the rapidly growing LDES sector. By improving VRFB technology, Flow-nano supports the integration of renewable energy sources and contributes to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Their vision is to enable a low-carbon future by accelerating the energy transition globally through innovative nanotechnology.
Battery Technology
Flow-nano’s core technology involves producing and depositing spherical carbon nanoparticles, also known as “carbon nano-onions,” onto carbon fabric electrodes. This nanomaterial coating significantly increases the electrodes’ electrochemically active surface area, enhancing battery efficiency, power output, and reducing overall costs. This patented technology platform is branded as NanoJeD.
The nanostructured electrode coatings, functionalized with defected and turbostratic carbon nano-onions, form a stable nano-catalyst layer. This process substantially improves the active surface area, current density, and catalytic activity of the electrodes. These advancements result in operational current densities up to 0.3 A/cm², a threefold improvement compared to conventional electrodes. This increase in current density raises power density, accelerates charge/discharge cycles, and supports scalability for large-scale systems.
Flow-nano’s electrodes are designed for durability, supporting over 20,000 cycles, which ensures long life and reliability critical for stationary energy storage solutions. The increased efficiency also lowers the levelized cost of storage, addressing a significant expense in VRFB technology and boosting the commercial viability of LDES.
Recent Projects
In 2024, Flow-nano secured €1 million from Tech4Planet, a technology transfer center managed by CDP Venture Capital SGR. This funding is intended to scale the nano-onion electrode coating technology from laboratory to pre-industrial levels and support prototype demonstrations aimed at reducing costs in flow batteries. Additionally, in 2025, Flow-nano secured a further $3 million funding round to advance their Vanadís Solution™ for VRFBs. These funds are designated to boost commercialization, scale manufacturing capabilities, and demonstrate cost reductions for large-scale flow battery applications.
Investors
Flow-nano has secured investments from Tech4Planet, a technology transfer center managed by CDP Venture Capital SGR. Additionally, an undisclosed group of investors provided a significant funding round in April 2025. Flow-nano also emphasizes the importance of partnerships with financial partners and investors who aim to support its growth and market position within the redox flow battery industry.
Business Details
Location: Milan, Italy
Website: https://www.flow-nano.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/96416598
