Development of advanced diagnostic techniques for water electrolysers

Lead Research Organisation: University College London
Department Name: Chemical Engineering

Abstract

The best way to generate zero-carbon hydrogen is by electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources (wind, solar, etc.). Polymer electrolyte electrolysers are arguably the most promising technology for this process. However, advances are required to improve performance and longevity. One of the best ways to do this is to use advanced diagnostics techniques to understand the internal workings of these devices. This project will develop techniques to understand performance at high current densities which are increasing being used with renewables under dynamic operation.

Publications

10 25 50

Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/N509577/1 30/09/2016 24/03/2022
1910303 Studentship EP/N509577/1 30/09/2017 10/10/2020 Maximilian Maier
 
Description The work associated to this award has led to establishing a novel diagnostic technique (acoustic emission) for use with PEM water electrolysers (PEMWEs). This is expected to be of direct use in the industrial use of PEMWEs, which are a promising technology for hydrogen production and storage of intermittent renewable energy.
This can lead to a more efficient operation of PEMWEs and hence contribute to the development of a carbon-free energy system in the UK.
Further research on developing a deeper understanding of the causes of poor efficiency in PEMWEs is currently under way.
Exploitation Route Industrial use of acoustic emission as large-scale, cheap and quick diagnostic tool for PEMWEs.
Sectors Chemicals

Energy

Environment

 
Description STFC Futures Early Career Award
Amount £1,000 (GBP)
Funding ID ST/R006873/1 
Organisation Science and Technologies Facilities Council (STFC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 11/2018 
End 04/2019
 
Description National Physics Laboratory - PEM Water Electrolysers 
Organisation National Physical Laboratory
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution - Regular discussions and meetings with scientists at NPL - Participation in Industrial Advisory Board Meetings - Regular presentation of research results at Industrial Advisory Board Meetings
Collaborator Contribution - Regular discussions and meetings - Help in publication writing - Discussion of scientific validity and significance of results
Impact - Publication (as listed in publication section) - Several publications under review and in work - Presentations at Industrial Advisory Group Meetings
Start Year 2017