Temperature and Performance Inhomogeneities in PEM Electrolysis Stacks with Industrial Scale Cells

authored by: T. Krenz, O. Weiland, P. Trinke, L. Helmers, C. Eckert, B. Bensmann, R. Hanke-Rauschenbach
Abstract: In this work temperature inhomogeneities and their influence on PEMWE performance of industrial-scale stacks are investigated. Three temperature differences are examined: (i) between the inlet and outlet, (ii) in-between the cells of a stack, (iii) between the cell’s solid materials and the fluids. A validated stack model for temperature and performance is presented which is used to quantify the above-mentioned temperature fields and their influences on current density distribution and cell voltages. For a chosen scenario, with current densities of 2.0 A cm⁻², fluid inlet temperatures of 60 °C and flow-rates of 0.15 kg s⁻¹m⁻², peak temperature differences amount to 8.2 K along-the-channel. This relates to inhomogeneities of current density of up to 10% inside a cell and deviations of cell voltage of 9 mV in-between cells in the center of the stack and outer cells. For higher current densities these differences increase further. More homogeneous temperatures allow operation at elevated average temperatures without exceeding temperature limitations and reduce the spread of degradation mechanisms. Hence, homogenous profiles lead to a more hole-some utilization of electrolysis stacks. Therefore, the ability to homogenize via alternative operation such as higher flow-rate, higher pressure and altered routing of fluid-flow is analyzed.
Organisation(s): Section Electrical Energy Storage Systems
External Organisation(s): Siemens AG
Type: Article
Journal: Journal of the Electrochemical Society
Volume: 170
ISSN: 0013-4651
Publication date: 19.04.2023
Publication status: Published
Peer reviewed: Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas: Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials, Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment, Surfaces, Coatings and Films, Electrochemistry, Materials Chemistry
Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
Electronic version(s): https://doi.org/10.1149/1945-7111/accb68 (Access: Open)