Parametric study to optimize proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells (PEMECs) are a promising system that can produce high purity hydrogen without any carbon emissions through a water splitting process. Yet, with more robust configurations and optimal operating conditions, PEMECs can potentially be utilized in energy and cost-effective practical applications. In this study, we conducted a parametric study to explore the optimal operating conditions that improve the performance and efficiency of PEMECs for the production of high purity hydrogen. Our experimental results show the high reliability of WSe2 in the oxygen evolution reaction as an anodic catalyst that improved the electrolysis performance of 29.1% in terms of a current density at an applied potential of −3 V compared to the conventional novel catalyst Pt/C 20%. Furthermore, a higher current density up to 17.2% was obtained by supplying sulfuric acid (H2SO4) into the cathode compartment of the PEMECs. The cell performance was also affected by the H2SO4 flow direction inside the PEMECs, and an average higher current density was improved by 4.1% when the H2SO4 flowed from the bottom side to the top of the electrolyzer cell. In addition, a faster flow rate delivered a higher current density up to 49.9% than a slower flow rate at a reduction potential of 1.8 V. Finally, the flow path coating of the catalysts provided a higher current density by 26.1% on average compared to the use of a gas diffusion electrode (GDE). This study provides a way to utilize PEMECs in commercial applications for high purity hydrogen production with high efficiency in the future.