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The sustainable production of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier is becoming increasingly important, especially in light of global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move away from fossil fuels. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers are a key technology in this process, as they can produce high-purity hydrogen through water electrolysis using renewable energy.
To continuously improve the efficiency, performance, and longevity of these systems, reproducible studies and optimizations at the cell level are essential. This is where the standardized single-cell test bench comes into play, allowing individual cells to be systematically characterized and evaluated under controlled conditions. Such a test bench is crucial not only for research and development but also for industrial quality control. Standardized testing protocols and procedures provide comparable and reproducible results, significantly contributing to the development and optimization of PEM electrolyzers.
Importance and Objectives in PEM Electrolyzer Testing
A standardized single-cell test bench allows for the systematic investigation of the performance, lifespan, and efficiency of individual cells under controlled conditions. The goal is to better understand material properties, operating parameters, and degradation mechanisms to improve the overall efficiency and lifespan of PEM electrolyzers. The reporting and analysis of test results play a crucial role in this process.
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Advantages and Applications of a Standardized Single-Cell Test Bench
A standardized single-cell test bench for PEM electrolyzers offers numerous advantages and applications that significantly contribute to the advancement and optimization of this technology.
A key advantage of such a test bench is the comparability of results. By using standardized testing methods and protocols, research institutions and manufacturers can directly compare their results. This promotes collaboration and exchange of knowledge, thereby accelerating innovation processes in the development of PEM electrolyzers. The parallel execution of test sequences enables efficient and reliable testing of systems.
Moreover, the single-cell test bench plays a key role in quality control. Manufacturers can test the performance and reliability of their products before mass production. Precise characterization of individual cells allows for the early identification and correction of potential weaknesses, resulting in higher product quality and lower failure rates. The use of DiLiCo Hydrogen Cell Test Systems for managing testing and validation systems supports the sequencing and parallelization of test steps.
In research and development, the test bench allows for the targeted investigation of new materials and concepts. Researchers can study the effects of different operating conditions and material combinations on the performance and lifespan of the cells. This is particularly important for developing new, more efficient catalysts and membranes that can improve the efficiency and longevity of PEM electrolyzers. The robust automated test and validation systems ensure reliable validation of test results.
Validation of Test Results
Another advantage is the ability to perform detailed long-term and degradation tests. By simulating real operating conditions and monitoring the cells over extended periods, researchers can better understand degradation mechanisms and develop strategies to extend lifespan. This is crucial for the economic viability and acceptance of the technology.
Additionally, the standardized single-cell test bench allows for the execution of dynamic tests. These are important to assess the cells' robustness against load changes and start-stop cycles, which are inevitable in real-world operations. The results of these tests contribute to the development of control strategies that maximize the efficiency and stability of PEM electrolyzers in practical use.
Structure and Components of the Test Bench
A standardized single-cell test bench for PEM electrolyzers is a complex system consisting of several essential components. Each component plays a specific role in the precise characterization and evaluation of single-cell performance.
1. Test Cell
The test cell is the heart of the test bench. DiLiCo offers the test cell from baltic FuelCells GmbH for use in the test bench. Custom test cells are also possible upon request. The test cell includes the following elements:
- Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA): Consists of a proton exchange membrane with catalyst layers (anode and cathode) on both sides.
- Bipolar Plates: Distribute the current and facilitate water supply and removal of hydrogen and oxygen.
- Seals: Prevent leaks and ensure system tightness.
2. Power Supply
A precise and controllable power source is necessary to simulate the required operating conditions:
- DC Power Supply: Provides the adjustable, constant direct current needed for water electrolysis.
3. Gas Management System
The gas management system ensures controlled water supply and gas removal:
- Water Supply System: Supplies water for electrolysis and regulates water flow.
- Gas Removal System: Removes the produced hydrogen and oxygen and measures their purity and quantity.
4. Temperature Control
Temperature control is critical for the stability and efficiency of the test cell:
- Heating/Cooling Systems: Maintain a constant operating temperature for the test cell.
- Temperature Sensors: Monitor temperature and ensure precise control.
- Water Preheating: For electrolysis.
5. Measurement and Monitoring Devices
Various sensors and measurement devices are necessary to monitor the performance and condition of the test cell:
- Voltage Measurement: Monitors cell voltage and identifies performance losses.
- Current Measurement: Measures current flow through the cell to calculate efficiency.
- Current Density Measurement Board (optional): DiLiCo CURR TEMP for baltic qCF 25 cm² or 50 cm².
- Crossover Sensors: Determine the percentage of oxygen in hydrogen and vice versa.
- Pressure Sensors: Monitor pressure in the test cell.
- EIS Measurement (optional): via DiLiCo CURR TEMP.
6. Data Recording and Analysis
An efficient data recording and analysis system is required to process and evaluate the information gathered during tests:
- Data Acquisition Systems: Continuously record all measurement data.
- Data Analysis Software: Enables evaluation and visualization of test results. The test bench can also be customized with extensions such as reporting and database logging to meet the specific needs of any environment.
7. Control System
The temperature control is critical for the stability and efficiency of the test cell:
- Automation System: Controls processes and ensures synchronization of all components.
- User Interface: Allows easy operation and monitoring of the test bench by the user. Additionally, users can store and automatically execute various test sequences.
Possible Test Protocols and Test Sequences for Data Evaluation
Testing protocols and procedures allow for comprehensive characterization and evaluation of PEM electrolyzer cells. The systematic application of the following methods can optimize the performance, efficiency, and lifespan of the cells, thus making a significant contribution to the advancement of PEM electrolyzer technology. Test sequences can assist in integrating various code modules and optimizing speed and parallel execution before transferring test systems to production.
Performance Curves (Polarization):
The creation of performance curves is a central method for evaluating the efficiency and performance of a PEM electrolyzer cell. The cell voltage is measured as a function of current density. This method helps quantify overpotentials and, consequently, energy losses in the cell.
Lifetime Tests:
Long-term studies are essential for determining the degradation and lifespan of cells under real operating conditions. These tests simulate the continuous operation of the cells and record performance changes over time.
Impedance Spectroscopy
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a powerful tool for investigating internal resistances and reaction mechanisms within the cell. This method helps identify different resistance components (e.g., ohmic resistance, charge transfer resistance).
Dynamic Tests:
Dynamic tests simulate real operating conditions in which the cell is subjected to load changes and start-stop cycles. These tests are important for assessing the robustness and reliability of cells under variable conditions.
Gas Purity Measurements:
The purity of the produced hydrogen and oxygen is a critical parameter for evaluating the performance of PEM electrolyzers. Gas purity is determined by measuring the concentrations of hydrogen in oxygen and vice versa.
Efficiency Tests:
The efficiency of the cell is determined by Faraday efficiency and energy efficiency. These tests help assess the conversion efficiency of electrical energy into chemical energy (hydrogen). Test systems offer comprehensive insight into the testing process and results, enabling the rapid development of robust automated testing and validation systems.
The entire testing process is facilitated by the use of test bench software that provides an intuitive user interface and full visibility into the testing process and results.
DiLiCo: Your Partner for Standardized Hydrogen Cell Test Benches
In a time when sustainable energy production and the optimization of hydrogen technologies are of crucial importance, DiLiCo offers you innovative solutions for the development and evaluation of PEM electrolyzers. With our extensive expertise and many years of experience in the field of electrochemistry, we are the ideal partner for your standardized single-cell test bench requirements.
Our test benches are designed to deliver precise and reproducible data that are essential for the further development and optimization of your PEM electrolyzer cells. We offer you standardized test solutions that cover all relevant parameters, including performance curves, lifespan, impedance spectroscopy, dynamic operating conditions, and gas purity.