In this tech talk, Steven had the pleasure of discussing Electrolyser Cell Degradation and Aging with Maik Heuer, Founder & CEO at DiLiCo.
Learn about Electrolyser Cell Degradation and Aging
Steven Oji and Maik Heuer discuss degradation in performance of electrolyzer or fuel cell components, such as membranes, electrodes, and seals, leading to reduced hydrogen production. Aging encompasses various processes, including corrosion, mechanical stress, and thermal damage, which compromise efficiency over time. Tools like DiLiCo Engineering’s CureTemp sensors analyze internal conditions, mapping current and temperature distribution to detect inefficiencies or damage. By optimizing operating parameters and detecting issues early, users can improve performance and longevity, yielding significant financial gains, such as €800,000 additional income from a 1% efficiency boost in hydrogen production.
A vivid analogy compares the surface of a cell’s catalyst to crumbs on a cake. Over time, oxygen radicals or other side reactions can block the catalyst surface, hindering hydrogen production. Similarly, poor design in flow fields can lead to starvation or flooding effects, reducing efficiency. Heuer’s system enables researchers and operators to detect such issues early, allowing adjustments in operating parameters to extend the cell's life and maintain optimal performance.
Improving efficiency by just 1% in a 1 MW electrolyzer can yield 160 additional tons of hydrogen, worth €800,000 over its operational life. The CureTemp system enhances cell behavior understanding, leading to more efficient designs, better material choices, and predictive maintenance to reduce downtime and costs. Integrating such advanced monitoring tools boosts performance and maximizes returns, meeting the rising demand for sustainable hydrogen production.
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Steven is a fuel cell system designer and he will deep-dive into the technology that makes the hydrogen economy work with real experts. We hope you will like the new format.