1D multiphysics modelling of PEM water electrolysis anodes with porous transport layers and the membrane

Abstract

• 1D novel multiphysics model of a PEM water electrolysis anode is developed. • Two-phase flows with charge conservation are simulated in the anode. • Water management in PEM is investigated for its effects on ion conductivity. • The properties of the porous transport layer are studied for improving performance. • The factors on oxygen evolution reaction are analyzed in CV test simulations. 1D multiphysics modelling of the PEM water electrolysis anode is benefit for detailed investigation of the joint effects of electrochemical performance and multicomponent multiphase flow transport phenomena. Such a model can be effectively applied for the water electrolysis system design and optimization. Recently, the importance of hydraulic effects and dynamic behavior gradually attracts much focus on this specific issue. In this article, a novel 1D dynamic model has been developed for interpreting the multiphysics processes in the PEM water electrolysis anode, which considers the complex fluid dynamics and electrochemistry in the PEM water electrolyzer (PEMWE) components – PEM, the anode catalyst layer and the porous transport layer. As a result, the hydraulic and electrochemical properties of three components were studied for investigation of their effects on the characterization of electrochemical performance and mass transport processes. It concludes that for the improvement of electrolytic performance, the porous transport layer is suggested to be designed for high permeability and low contact angle. The catalyst layer needs to be optimized for its three-phase interface fraction with high coating mass in the membrane assembly.