Optimal sizing and operation of electrochemical hydrogen compression

Abstract

Hydrogen compression is necessary for efficient hydrogen storage, transportation, and in high-pressure chemical processes. A promising alternative to traditional mechanical compressors is electrochemical compression. As a novel technology, there are still open questions regarding the optimal design and operation in terms of total cost and the influence of the pressure level on the optimal operating point. We analyze the efficiency and economic performance of such compression. We develop a dynamic and spatially distributed (1D) model of an electrochemical hydrogen compressor. We investigate hydrogen compression at low to high pressure levels. Moreover, an operational and capital cost analysis is performed, and the optimal current density and temperature are determined. The results reveal that lower temperatures, and higher current densities tend to be favorable at higher target pressures. The optimal total cost for the considered compressor varies from 0.6 ▪ to 2 ▪ for compression to 1 MPa and 70 MPa, respectively.