Abstract
This paper investigates the influence of the cell compression of a PEM water electrolysis cell. A small single cell is therefore electrochemically analyzed by means of polarization behavior and impedance spectroscopy throughout a range of currents (0.01 A cm−2 to 2.0 A cm−2) at two temperatures (60°C and 80°C) and eight compressions (0.77 MPa–3.45 MPa). Additionally, a computational model is utilized to support the analysis. The main findings are that cell compression has a positive effect on overall cell performance due to decreased contact resistances, but is subject to optimization. In this case, no signs of severe mass transport problems due to crushed transport layers are visible in either polarization curves or impedance plots, even at high currents. However, a Tafel plot analysis revealed more than one slope throughout the current range. The change in the Tafel slope is therefore discussed and connected to the electrochemical reaction or an ohmic contribution from a non-electrode component.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Electrochimica Acta |
Volume | 263 |
Pages (from-to) | 228-236 |
Number of pages | 9 |
ISSN | 0013-4686 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Feb 2018 |
Keywords
- PEM water electrolysis
- Impedance spectroscopy
- Contact resistance
- Model validation
- Clamping pressure