Abstract
The electrical energy efficiency of commercial water electrolyzers is normally limited by internal energy losses heat generated at economic current density levels exceeds the heat required to maintain the temperature of the electrolyte, and cooling must be used. The energy losses reflect the effects of ohmic resistance and of the electrode overvoltages. Development of activated electrode systems and of improved electrode geometries promises to reduce these losses to the point where efficiency will be limited instead by the requirement that sufficient heat be generated internally to maintain the electrolyte temperature. The limitation on electrical energy efficiency then becomes thermodynamic. This paper reviews the major thermodynamic and kinetic considerations which impact design of industrial water electrolyzers. Options indicated for development of advanced technology are considered. These are then related to the approaches being taken in major world-wide programs which are working to reduce the cost of hydrogen production from water and electricity.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
