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.
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/N509577/1 | 01/10/2016 | 24/03/2022 | |||
| 1910303 | Studentship | EP/N509577/1 | 01/10/2017 | 11/10/2020 | 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 |