Optimization of operating parameters for boosting the performance of the PEMEC by the response surface methodology

Abstract

ABSTRACT Polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis cell (PEMEC) systems will be more attractive for green hydrogen production if maximal cell performance and minimal system cost are ensured. The PEMEC's output current and hydrogen flow ratemainly depend on the design and operating parameters. Optimized operating parameters are crucial for high-performance operations in PEMECs. This paper aimed to experimentally investigate the impacts of the input factors on the current and hydrogen flow rate of PEMEC having a 9 cm2 active area. Design-of-Experiment (DOE) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were applied to obtain the optimum levels and analyze the effect of the operating parameters. Cell temperature, pump speed, and cell voltage are the three main operating factors ranging from 50 to 80°C, 3 to 9, and 1.8 to 2.3 V. Within the scope of the study, the individual and combined effects of operating parameters on the current and hydrogen flow rate will be observed through RSM. The experiment results show that temperature, cell voltage, and interactions between temperature and cell voltage significantly impact PEMEC performance. Consequently, the maximum current of 13.897 A and the maximum hydrogen flow rate of 118.458 mL/min were obtained at a temperature of 80°C, pump speed of 3, and cell voltage of 2.3 V.