In the pursuit of green energy solutions, a team of researchers from the University of Birmingham and the University of Stuttgart, led by Zehua Dou and Kerstin Eckert, have been exploring ways to improve the efficiency of low temperature water electrolyzers (LTWEs) and low temperature hydrogen fuel cells (LTFCs). These technologies are crucial for the production and utilization of green hydrogen, a key player in the transition to a net-zero world. However, challenges in fluid transport and reaction kinetics have been hindering their performance. The team’s recent review, published in the journal Nature Energy, delves into the latest advancements in measurement technologies that could help overcome these hurdles.
The researchers begin by outlining the technical requirements for analytical systems that can effectively monitor fluid transport in LTWEs and LTFCs. They assess the capabilities and limitations of established imaging systems, such as optical, X-rays, and neutron-based technologies. While these methods have provided valuable insights, they often fall short in delivering high-resolution, scalable, and operando (real-time) measurements at the device and system levels.
The review then shifts its focus to emerging strategies that leverage miniaturized sensors, ultrasound, and other alternative physical principles. These innovative approaches hold promise for achieving the high-resolution, scalable, and operando measurements needed to better understand and optimize fluid transport in LTWEs and LTFCs. For instance, integrated miniaturized sensors can provide real-time data on the local conditions within the devices, while ultrasound-based techniques can offer non-invasive, high-resolution imaging of fluid transport processes.
Looking ahead, the researchers emphasize the importance of developing next-generation sensing concepts to tackle the fluid transport challenge. They highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of advanced manufacturing techniques to accelerate the deployment of green hydrogen technologies. By improving the efficiency of LTWEs and LTFCs, these efforts could significantly enhance the viability of green hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source.
In practical terms, the insights gained from these advanced measurement technologies could lead to the development of more efficient and cost-effective LTWEs and LTFCs. This, in turn, could facilitate the widespread adoption of green hydrogen in various energy sector applications, from industrial processes to transportation and energy storage. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and energy sustainability, the work of Dou, Eckert, and their colleagues offers a promising path forward in the quest for a net-zero future.
Source: Dou, Z., Tropf, L., Lappan, T. et al. Monitoring of fluid transport in low temperature water electrolyzers and fuel cells: emerging technologies and future prospects. Nat Energy (2023).
This article is based on research available at arXiv.