Evolution of a GDE setup: Beyond ambient conditions

Bridging the gap between basic research and application: a half-cell setup for high current density measurements of Ir-based oxygen evolution reaction catalysts on porous transport electrodes

“…While the hot pressing of the GDE was an important element in extending the kinetic-dominated potential region, mass transport limitations were still present at current densities greater than 100 mA cm geo −2 . 28 There were further limitations due to the setup configuration, as it was previously reported by Wiberg et al 29 that the position of the reference electrode and the counter electrode in the single chamber design could vary during the measurements, therefore leading to substantial differences in the iR correction especially at high current densities.…”

“…. 28 There were further limitations due to the setup conguration, as it was previously reported by Wiberg et al 29 that the position of the reference electrode and the counter electrode in the single chamber design could vary during the measurements, therefore leading to substantial differences in the iR correction especially at high current densities. At the same time, given the small area of the working electrode (WE), the edge imperfections and inhomogeneities led to a larger spread in the obtained results.…”

“…Ultimately, this study showcases the possibilities of this technique to the new generations of self-supported catalysts and the high exibility to adapt the setup to specic conditions by performing minor changes in its conguration. 29 2. Experimental…”

Which insights can gas diffusion electrode half-cell experiments give into activity trends and transport phenomena of membrane electrode assemblies?

“…22 While these GDE setups were so far mostly utilized at room temperature and limited to ambient pressure, a setup was recently presented, which allows measurements at temperatures up to 120 1C and pressures of up to 4 bar. 23 What is still under debate, is how GDE measurements differ in detail from MEA measurements and what possible limitations the technique has. Despite the temperature difference (mostly room temperature in GDE testing, 80 1C in MEA testing), one important issue is whether GDE half-cell characterization is carried out with or without an ionomer membrane between the catalyst surface and the liquid electrolyte.…”

“…22 While these GDE setups were so far mostly utilized at room temperature and limited to ambient pressure, a setup was recently presented, which allows measurements at temperatures up to 120 °C and pressures of up to 4 bar. 23…”