Combination effect of flow channel configuration and anode GDL porosity on mass transfer and performance of PEM water electrolyzers

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolyzer is being recognized as promising hydrogen production technology. Enhanced mass transfer of water can effectively ensure sufficient reactant supply, to achieve efficient hydrogen production....

Recent advances in key components of proton exchange membrane water electrolysers

“…48 (2) Suitable pore distribution and porosity, which are essential for regulating the contact between the catalyst layer and the GDL to achieve efficient mass transfer between gas and liquid. 43,[49][50][51][52] (3) Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity to accelerate reaction kinetics as well as discharge the heat generated by the reaction in time, 53 (4) high corrosion resistance mitigates the negative impact of the operating environment and prolongs the cell lifespan. During the working process of the electrolytic cell, GDL often serves in a harsh, corrosive environment due to the high overpotential and oxygen-coupled acid generation in the anode.…”

Designing proton exchange membrane fuel cells with high specific power density

“…139 In general, increasing the porosity of GDLs is beneficial for the diffusion of the reaction gas; however, the conductivity of the electrode will decrease. 140 Although reducing porosity can enhance the conductivity of the electrode, it also hinders the transmission of gas. 141 In addition, the porosity distribution also seriously affects the uniform distribution of reaction gas and current density within the catalytic layer.…”

Gas Diffusion Layer for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: A Review

“…Moreover, water generated from the reaction in PEMFCs needs adequate routes to be drained without flooding the CL and GDL [24][25][26]. Zhou et al [27] found that the ability of mass transfer was enhanced by reducing the length of the channel for gas flow and increasing the porosity of the anode GDL (A-GDL). Sim et al [28] reported a new approach to increasing the porosity and pore size of GDL by changing the gasket thickness, resulting in a positive effect on the drainage capacity.…”