PRE-INVESTIGATION OF WATER ELECTROLYSIS

PSO-F&U 2006-1-6287
Draft 04-02-2008

Foreword
This report is the result of an investigation of water electrolysis for hydrogen production in the energy system. The study has been carried out jointly by (1) Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark (KI/DTU), (2) Fuel Cells and Solid State Chemistry Department, Ris National Laboratory, Technical University of Denmark, and (3) DONG Energy. The investigation constituted the main part of the project 6287 Pre-investigation of Electrolysis funded by the Danish Public Service Obligation programme (PSO) under Energinet.dk. The overall aim has been to review: State-of the-art for electrolysis technology from small scale to large industrial scale comprising the following technologies: Alkaline electrolysis (AEC), polymer electrolysis (PEMEC) and solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC). The available commercial products of today with respect to performance and when possible, cost. The learning curves for the different electrolyzer techniques The potential for introduction of electrolysis in the Danish utility system in connection with an extended production of renewable electricity. The industrial potential in Denmark for in relation to water electrolysis.

The report is structured as follows After an introduction (chapter 1) and a brief historical part (chapter 2), the general fundamental properties and characteristics are explained (chapter 3). The components of the cell, the thermodynamics and the electrical and overall efficiency are treated. Chapter 4 is a technical review of the specific types of electrolyzers of relevance. This is a major part of the report and it is based on an extensive literature study. In chapter 5 information and key figures of commercially available electrolyzers are assembled. In chapter 6 a technical foresight for electrolyzers is attempted based on the review performed in the previous chapters. Chapter 7 treats the adaptation of water electrolysis in the Danish energy system. The extent of the present report ended up somewhat larger that expected by the authors and most likely not all parts are equally relevant to all readers. However, we hope and believe that the information collected can be value for a broad range of stakeholders addressing different aspects of electrolysis ranging from scientific or technical development to planning of the future energy system. It should be possible to find the relevant chapters in the report and skip the rest. Moreover, an executive summary can be found in the beginning. 04. February 2008 KI DTU Jens Oluf Jensen Viktor Bandur Niels J. Bjerrum Ris DTU Sren Hjgaard Jensen Sune Ebbesen Mogens Mogensen DONG Energy Niels Tophj Lars Yde (HIRC)

Summary
Hydrogen is more and more often mentioned as a solution to the tremendous challenges resulting from the global worming and depletion of oil and gas. Today, most hydrogen produced worldwide is from fossil fuels, because this has so far been the most cost efficient. However, hydrogen has to be extracted from water in order to avoid the pollution problems and resource limitations of the fossil-fuel-based production technologies. The rethinking of the energy system away from a fossil based energy system is ongoing, and the idea of a renewable energy based system, perhaps in combination with some form of nuclear power is gaining a wider acceptance then previously. If the challenges pinpointed by the IPCC and others shall be met tremendous changes in our energy system is mandatory over a limited period of time. Strongly increased use of renewables requires large scale energy conversion and most likely techniques for large scale storage to compensate for the production fluctuations associated with energy sources like wind and sunlight. Moreover, the transport sector will most likely need a fuel for propulsion for many years, perhaps forever. Fuel can to some extend be produced from biomass and waste, but these sources will only partly cover the need. Conversion from electricity to a fuel is inevitable in a future energy system, and no matter if this fuel is pure hydrogen or synthetic fuels (methanol, methane, gasoline etc.) the first step is production of hydrogen from water splitting. Although there are a number of methods for water splitting, the only realistic technique for this process at a large scale is called water electrolysis.

Fundamentals of electrolysis
Many different types of electrolysis cells have been proposed and constructed. The different electrolysis cells can be divided into groups based on the electrolyte. Table 1-1 presents an overview of the different types of cells. All the cells presented in Table 1-1 are capable of using H2O as reactant to produce H2. However, only the solid oxide cell is capable of using CO2 to produce CO. Table 1-1. Electrolysis cells and their specialities. Type Charge carrier Reactant Electrolyte Electrodes Temperature Alkaline OHWater Sodium or Potassium hydroxide Nickel 80 oC Acid H+ Water Sulphuric or Phosphoric acid Graphite with Pt, polymer 150oC Polymer electrolyte H+ Water Polymer Solid oxide O2Water, CO2 Ceramic

Graphite Nickel, with Pt, ceramics polymer 80oC 850oC

The overall electrolysis reaction (H2O H2 + O2 or CO2 CO + O2) is a sum of two electrochemical reactions (also called half-cell reactions), which occur at the electrodes. The electrode where the reduction of reactants or intermediates takes place is called the cathode. The anode is the electrode where oxidation of reactants or intermediates takes place. Both H2O and CO2 electrolysis become increasingly heat consuming with temperature. Hence at elevated temperatures a significant part of the total energy demand can be provided as heat according to Figure 1-1. This provides an opportunity to utilize the Joule heat that is inevitably produced due to the passage of electrical current through the cell. In this way, the overall electricity consumption and, thereby, the H2 and/or CO production price can be reduced.

Figure 1-1. Thermodynamics of H2O and CO2 electrolysis at 0.1 MPa.

The thermo-neutral voltage is defined as:

ETn

H f nF

G f nF

T S f nF

(1)

where H f is the formation enthalpy change, G f is the Gibbs free energy change, S f is the formation entropy change, T is the temperature in Kelvin, n is the

number of electrons involved in the electrolysis reaction and F is Faradays constant. Hence, if the cell voltage equals ETn all the produced Joule heat is utilized. If the cell voltage is above ETn the cell produces surplus heat (waste heat). If the cell voltage is below ETn, the produced Joule heat does not meet the heat demand and the cell cools down if heat is not provided by other means. For both H2O and CO2 electrolysis, ETn at 0.1 MPa, 25 C is 1.48 V. At 950 C, it is 1.29 V and 1.46 V respectively. Hence, electrolysis of a H2O/CO2 mixture at 950 C can be performed at thermo-neutral conditions at a cell voltage between 1.29 V and 1.46 V depending on the H2O/CO2 electrolysis ratio.

Efficiency
The efficiency, , of the electrolysis process may be calculated as the higher heating value (HHV) of one mole of the product divided by the energy consumption, W, used to produce one mole of the product. A high efficiency is of course beneficial, however, an economically optimized production is usually more important. In order to optimize the production economy a high production rate is necessary. The higher the cell voltage is increased above the higher is the current density and in turn the production rate. When the cell voltage o increases above ETn , surplus heat is produced and the efficiency decreases. Todays alkaline cells are typically operated at ~1.9V or higher in order to optimize the production economy. With SOECs it is possible to achieve economically optimized production costs and at the same time keep the cell voltage at ETn or slightly above.

Types of electrolyzers
All electrolyzer consists in the simplest principle of two electrode separated by an electrolyte. So called half cell reaction resulting in the formation hydrogen and oxygen respectively take place at one electrode each. The role of the electrolyte is to close the electrical circuit by allowing ions (but not electrons) to move between the electrodes. Moreover it keeps the produced gasses separated. Alkaline electrolyzers (AEC) represent a very mature technology that is the current standard for large-scale electrolysis. The anode and cathode materials in these systems are typically made of nickel-plated steel and steel respectively. The electrolyte in these systems is a liquid one based on a highly caustic KOH solution. The ionic charge carrier is the hydroxyl ion, OH-, and a membrane porous to hydroxyl ions, but not to H2 and O2 provides gas separation. Key advantages of this technology include its maturity and its durability. Key disadvantages are its use of a highly caustic electrolyte and its inability to produce hydrogen at high pressures. This inability to produce high pressure hydrogen for storage results in the added need for an external compressor, which adds cost and complexity to the system. The cell reactions are: 4H2O(l) + 4e- 2H2(g) + 4OH-(aq) 4OH(aq) O2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 4e2H2O(l) 2H2(g) + O2(g) (2)

The electrolyte is an alkaline solution in water, typically 30% potassium hydroxide. It is contained in a porous felt separator traditionally made of asbestos. The electrodes are made of nickel or nickel plated metal on which a catalyst is applied. The catalyst can be noble metals like platinum, rhodium or iridium, but a large selection of nonnoble catalysts is also available. The body report reviews extensive information on materials for electrodes and catalysts. The details are not suited for being summarized here.

Most commercial potassium hydroxide water electrolysers use nickel electrodes and are operated at 70-80 C. Increasing the operating temperature influences the thermodynamic of the system. Only limited information on electrolysers operated at elevated temperatures (above 150 C) is available. Increasing the operation temperature for alkaline water electrolysis from the normal 80C to above 200 C may significantly increase the performance and the electricity to hydrogen efficiency. A possible obstacle for operating at elevated temperature is the lower stability of the materials. Development of suitable materials for the cell is necessary in order to develop a large scale water electrolysis plant for operation at elevated temperatures. At present possibly suitable cell and separator materials, which are not more expensive than low temperature alkaline electrolyser materials, have been identified, but the necessary long term (several years) stability remains to be proven. Polymer electrolyzer or proton exchange membrane electrolysers (PEMEC) are built around a proton conductive polymer electrolyte. The electrodes are: Anode : 2H2O 4H+ + O2 + 4eCathode : 4H+ + 4e- 2H2 Cell : 2H2O 2H2 + O2 (3)

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis technology is frequently presented in the literature as a very interesting alternative to the more conventional alkaline water electrolysis. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis systems offer several advantages over traditional technologies including greater energy efficiency, higher production rates, and more compact design. The advantages of the solid-polymer-type cell are that (a) The electrolyte membrane or diaphragm can be made very thin, allowing high conductivity without risk of gas crossover, and (b) the electrolyte is immobilized and cannot be leached out of the cell. Also it is ecological cleanliness, considerably smaller massvolume characteristics and power costs and, that is very important, a high degree of gases purity, an opportunity of compressed gases obtaining directly in the installation, the increased level of safety. The disadvantages of the solid-polymer-electrolyte (SPE) cell are that (a) the electrolyte costs more than the conventional alkaline solutions and (b) the electrolyte is corrosive and requires more expensive metal components to be used in the cell. For these reasons, solid-polymer-electrolyte cells are usually operated at somewhat higher current densities than cells that use a liquid alkaline electrolyte. Normally, different electro catalysts are utilized for the anode (e.g. IrO2) and cathode (e.g. Pt). When the electrode layers are bonded to membrane, it is known as the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). The membrane consists of a solid fluoropolymer which has been chemically altered in part to contain sulphonic acid groups, SO3H, which easily release their hydrogen as positively-charged atoms or protons [H+]: PEM electrolysis technology has fast response time and start-up/shut-down characteristics. Hydrogen generation starts immediately at ambient conditions.

The type of solid oxide electrolyser cell (SOEC) that has been developed, fabricated and tested at Ris has shown the best steam and CO2 electrolysis performance ever reported for an electrolysis cell. In general, the main reason for the high performance of the SOEC technology compared with other electrolysis technologies is the high temperature (600 - 1000 C), since both the H2O and CO2 electrolysis reactions become increasingly endothermic with temperature and the ohmic losses in SOECs decreases with increasing temperature. More specific, the reason for the high SOEC performance is that Ris in about two decades has been among the leaders world wide in developing the close related SOFC technology. This high performance makes it potentially possible to establish an efficient H2 and CO production. A practical electricity to fuel efficiency about 90 % seems realistic. Estimations of the H2 and CO cost, based on the measured performance and economic assumptions specified, indicate H2 and CO production costs competitive with todays crude oil prices. The H2 production cost was found to be 71 US/kg equivalent to 30 $/barrel crude oil using the HHV (higher heating value). The CO production cost was found to be 5.6 US/kg equivalent to 34 $/barrel crude oil using the HHV. The main part of the production cost was found to be the electricity cost for the electrolysis operation. A combined H2 + CO (synthesis gas) production can be catalyzed into various types of synthetic fuels, such as methanol, DME (dimethylether) and methane. In such a synthetic fuel production, some reduction in the production price may be achieved by utilizing the heat from the catalysis reaction for steam generation. The lifetime of the SOEC is a main issue to be addressed before the technology is commercially viable. In general, much R&D work is necessary before this technology is ready for the market. For the synthesis of organic fuels a carbon source is needed. This source might on the short term be the flue gasses of the conventional power plants (or optionally oxyfuel combustion, i.e. combustion of fuels with oxygen from the electrolyzers). On the longer term, CO2 from the atmosphere might have to be captured. A system for CO2 capture is discussed. It is a closed loop in which Ca(OH)2 absorbs atmospheric CO2 forming CaCO3. Pure concentrated CO2 is later released by heat. The residue, CaO absorbs H2O forming Ca(OH)2.

Commercially available electrolyzers

The technology and sizes of commercially available electrolyzers vary greatly. In the present survey of commercial electrolyzers focus is only on technology that can be useful to the electrical power grid. Consequently, the performance review only covers alkaline electrolyzers because they are the only ones available for larger scale hydrogen production.

Research - Product development - Commercial products Solid Oxide Electrolyses Proton Exchange electrolyses Alkaline Electrolyses Figure 1-2. A graphical indication of the state of development of the different types of electrolyzers.

6 major suppliers of alkaline electrolysers have been identified as: Norsk Hydro in Norway Hydrogenics in Belgium Iht in Switzerland AccaGen in Switzerland Erre Due in Italy represented by H2Indistrial in Denmark Uralkhimmash in Russia

The plants can be divided in two groups. Atmospheric and pressurized plants. The atmospheric plant operates at atmospheric pressure of one bar and the pressurized plant operates at pressures from 4 to 30 bar depending of the make.
Table 1-2. Large capacity electrolyzers from the listed companies. Western Supplier Hydro Hydrogenics IHT AccaGen Erre Due Uralkhimmash Atmospheric plants 200 to 2000 kW Pressure plants 50 to 300 kW 60 to 240 kW 500 to 3400 kW 7 to 500 kW 100 to 200 kW 20-1250 kW

14 to 1500 kW

1520-3150 kW

Electrolysers have the reputation of being very expensive. It is true but often when the price pr. kW of a specific electrolyser is mentioned the size of the plant is not given. The specific price of electrolysers (EURO / kW) is strongly dependent of the size of the plant. The price analysis in Figure 8-1 shows it very clearly. It can be seen that the price per kW installed capacity vary with a factor of 10 dependent of the size of the plant.

Prices of Alcaline Electrolysers

10000 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 0 500 1.000 1.500 kW 1 Bar, HYDRO 4 Bar, H2Industrial 16 Bar, HYDRO 6 Bar, AccaGen 10 Bar, Hydrogenics 1 Bar ELT 2.000 2.500 3.000

Figure 1-3. Prices of electrolyzers as a function of production capacity. The figures are from the present study.

The electricity cost for hydrogen production was calculated on the following basis: 1) Actual electricity prices through 2006 (varying). 2) The price of the largest electrolyzer in the study. Assumptions: 1) Electrolyzer depreciation over 10 years, 75% efficiency (HHV). The production cost for hydrogen was then varying between 0.45 and 0.50 kr/kWh for between 25 and 100% use of the electrolyzer (part time production at lowest electricity prices). If, moreover, the value of oxygen and heat was included in the calculation the cost was between 0.35 and 0.40 kr/kWh. If the electrolyzer efficiency is assumed td to be 100% instead of 75% the cost is between 0.30 and 0.33 kr/kWh in the same utilisation interval. This limited reduction is not an argument against research and development of more efficient electrolyzers, but a very strong indication that there is absolutely no reason to await more efficient electrolysers to start business development. The efficiency of an electrolyser is defined as the ratio of the higher heat value (HHV) of the hydrogen produced and the DC electricity consumption of the electrolyser. The commercial electrolyzers have an electricity consumption of 4.1 to 4.8 kWh per normal m3 produced. Using the HHV of 3.5 kWh/m3 hydrogen, the efficiencies can be calculated to between 85 and 73%. The following companies were visited during the project: Norsk Hydro, Nottodden, Norway IHT (former Lurgi), Geneva, Switzerland Acca-gen, Lugarno, Switzerland Hydrogenics, Antwerp, Belgium

Euro / kW

A pilot plant for 125Nm3 H2/hour and a full-scale project for 50000Nm3 H2/hour were looked for. Issues like efficiency, pressure and technology were discussed with the companies. The H2 is meant for methanol production. This process will run at an estimated pressure of minimum 70 bar, which means that a high-pressure H2 production will be an advantage.

Technical foresight
Apart from gradual improvement of performance and lifetime as well as cost, two development lines are discussed. The one is increased working pressure. If hydrogen is to be stored in pressure tanks or used for fuel synthesis compression work can be limited if hydrogen is delivered at higher pressure. The theoretical cost in terms of electrical energy is smaller than what is practically needed for a compressor. The other development line is increase working temperature. As discussed above the minimum work (electrical energy) required decreases with temperature, and this is one of the arguments for SOEC and also to some extent for AEC and PEMEC at elevated temperatures. Moreover, elevated temperature results in better electrode kinetics and electrolyte conductivity, both of which lovers the internal losses. If the excess heat produced is utilized, it is no longer a loss. A possible use of the heat could be in the district heating system. This would require slightly higher temperatures than just below 100C, which is normal for the present electrolyzers available. Due to the necessity of water electrolysis in the future energy system, strongly increase research activity is expected over the years coming. A number of research groups in Denmark are already getting involved (to some extent a spin-off from fuel cells) and are thus establishing a good position for electrolysis development in Demark. Oxygen can be used in an oxy-fuel combustion process resulting in high temperatures and highly concentrated CO2 in the flue gas. This CO2 can be useful for the synthesis of synthetic fuels (methanol, methane etc), as there will be no need for N2 removal. Synthesis of methanol, methane or other synthetic fuels might be desirable because it eases storage and later fuelling. It should be studied under which condition the electrolyzer itself or the system can facilitate this synthesis. Generally, atomic hydrogen and oxygen (or their respective ions) that appear at the electrolyzer electrodes are more reactive than the molecular hydrogen and oxygen they form before they are released as products of the electrolysis process. In case hydrogen is produced with the aim of storing, say wind energy, the oxygen produced should be stored as well. The production ratio (1:2) is of course the same as needed for the back conversion, and fuel cells operated on pore oxygen (instead of air with only 21% oxygen) performs with a higher efficiency. Finally, the Danish wind industry might benefit in terms of competitiveness from a following technology. When wind power is enhanced to cover a larger fraction of the energy supply in other countries that Denmark and a few more, technology to handle the produced hydrogen will be asked for.

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Adaptation of electrolysis in the Danish energy system

The occurrence in recent times of serious blackouts in America and Europe underscores the fact that additional measures are urgently needed to avoid such costly incidents. In addition integration of increasing generation capacity from renewable energy sources is a challenge to the operation of the system. The need and potential for integrating energy storage or energy conversion in electrical power systems with high wind penetration is already widely recognised within electric power utilities. In this context electrolysers - being both flexible electric loads, energy conversion systems and storage - can increase the flexibility of the system and be an important measure to allow the integration of additional renewable energy in the Danish power system. The individual electrolyser cells require voltage adjusted in the interval 80100% as to change the current from 20% to 100%. Large-scale electrolyser as e.g. envisaged in DONG Energys in the range of several hundreds of MWs will have to connect at the transmission level at 132-150 kV. Connection of large-scale electrolysers in the transmission system can mitigate transfer capacity problems in the transmission system, which occurs e.g. in periods with high wind generation. In this way significant costs of transmission line upgrades can be avoided. In addition electrolysers may offer possibilities for improving the security of the system by e.g. including them in remedial action schemes as significant load that can be disconnected. Finally, as will be discussed in the following, by applying PWM converter technology electrolysers may eventually add significantly to the reactive power and voltage control of the system. Medium scale electrolysers (50 MW or less) may connect to the distribution system at voltage levels 50-60 kV or 10-20 kV. Here it is of interest to consider Energinet.dks development plans for a new network structure in Denmark. Its a concept based on a two-layer structure where the 150 kV and the 400 kV transmission levels are to be jointly planned and operated and the local grids below each 150/60 kV transformer station will constitute network cells in which monitoring and control are performed. Flexible electrical load (FEL) is defined as variations of consumer load on a shortterm basis as response to price signals. The Danish TSO estimates that the potential for price flexibility of regular consumers in Denmark is approximately 660 MW. The integration of electrolysis plants of say 100-200 MW would thus add significantly to the flexibility. Increasing wind capacity in the system will tend to give larger fluctuations in electricity prices and increase problems of power overflow when wind power can cover the complete load. A more flexible demand will mitigate these problems and give more stable prices, and thus an increased integration of electrolysers (and other flexible loads, storage and energy conversion systems) would increase the value of the wind generation. The choice of electrolyser type has influence on the power control capabilities of the system. Standard alkaline electrolysers presently in operation are not designed for fast control. Large electrolysers like Norsk Hydro are designed for continuous operation and take approx. two hours to start-up and increase production to 100%. Increased 11

cooling can decrease the start-up time. Small alkaline electrolyser cells are available, which offer 20 seconds start-up time. A Solid Oxide Electrolyser system can be controlled by regulation of the temperature (by changing the current through the cells) and at the same time control the water or steam supply. The thermal control of the cells will be important for the control of power to the electrolyser. Downwards regulation from 100% to 0% can happen in approx. 30 seconds, whereas the upward control can take 15 minutes or more. PEM electrolysers will offer better performance in terms of control range and regulation time. A dynamic range of the PEM electrolyser 5100 % of rated capacity has been achieved and typically the electrolyser will have a response time from 5-100 % in less than a second. It is presently required that generation units, which are connected to the transmission system, are obliged to provide automatic active power reserves for the support of the power system in case of disturbances. Presently such obligations are not applied to specific flexible loads. However, in case emergency reserves are not sufficient to stabilize the power system after the disturbance; frequency protections will automatically shed loads (i.e. disconnect consumers). Electrolysers may offer such services and as excellent performance can be achieved in combination with wind generation. Finally, with a large fraction of renewables in the energy system water electrolysis is inevitable even though the technology is not perfect. Efficiencies, short term cost and the advantages and drawbacks of the different technologies can be, and will be, discussed. However, a more fundamental question could be what is the alternative, if business as usual is not an option?

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FOREWORD SUMMARY TABLE OF CONTENT 1 2 3 INTRODUCTION HISTORY OF ELECTROLYZERS FUNDAMENTALS OF ELECTROLYSIS 3.1 THERMODYNAMICS 3.1.1 Temperature 3.1.2 Thermo-neutral voltage 3.1.3 Pressure 3.2 EFFICIENCY 4 TYPES OF ELECTROLYZERS 4.1 4.1.1 4.1.2 4.1.3 4.2 4.2.1 4.2.2 4.2.3 4.3 4.3.1 4.3.2 4.3.3 4.3.4 4.3.5 4.4 4.4.1 4.4.2 4.4.3 4.4.4 4.5 4.5.2 4.5.3 4.5.4 4.5.5 4.5.6 4.5.7 5 ALKALINE ELECTROLYZERS The cell Stacks and systems State of art POLYMER ELECTROLYZERS The cell Stacks and systems State of art HIGH TEMPERATURE ALKALINE ELECTROLYZERS Thermodynamic of water electrolysis Gibbs energy Enthalpy Materials Conclusion SOLID OXIDE ELECTROLYSER CELLS Introduction SOEC History and Background SOEC state of the art at Ris International SOEC status ECONOMIC MODELLING OF H2 AND CO PRODUCTION USING SOEC The experimental results used as input Economic input Discussion of the results of the economic calculations Conclusions on SOEC Appendix 1. CCASR calculation Appendix 2. Economy calculation

2 3 13 15 18 25 26 26 27 27 28 30 30 30 33 39 62 62 65 66 71 72 72 74 77 78 78 78 79 81 83 84 86 87 94 102 103 104 107 107 110 123 126 129 129 130 133 134 135 136 138

COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE ELECTROLYZERS 5.1 PERFORMANCE REVIEW 5.1.1 Western marked 5.1.2 Eastern marked 5.1.3 Prices, Efficiency, CE-Marking, Safety 5.2 COST 5.2.1 Hydrogen as an energy raw material 5.2.2 Electricity costs 5.2.3 Investment costs 5.2.4 Depreciation 5.2.5 Optimum operation of electrolyser plants 5.2.6 Utilization of oxygen and heat. 5.2.7 Excess of wind power

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5.2.8 An estimate of the European market for electrolysers 5.3 VISITS TO SUPPLIERS OF ELECTROLYSERS 5.3.1 General questions and answers. 5.3.2 Norsk Hydro minutes of meeting. 5.3.3 AccaGen, minutes of meeting 5.3.4 IHT minutes of meeting. 5.3.5 Hydrogenics minutes of meeting. 6 TECHNICAL FORESIGHT 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 7 7.1 7.2 7.2.1 7.2.2 7.2.3 7.2.4 7.2.5 7.3 7.3.1 7.3.2 7.3.3 7.4 7.4.1 7.4.2 7.5 7.6 7.6.1 7.6.2 7.6.3 7.6.4 7.7 7.7.1 7.7.2 8 8.1 8.2 8.3 9 ALKALINE ELECTROLYZER CELLS (AEC) POLYMER ELECTROLYZER CELLS (PEMEC) SOLID OXIDE ELECTROLYZER (SOEC) REVERSIBLE FUEL CELLS SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT ELECTROLYSIS IN THE DANISH POWER SYSTEM THE POWER SUPPLY OF ELECTROLYSERS The load control Intermittent operation AC/DC conversion and power regulating Converters and converter configurations Alternative converter configurations GRID CONNECTION AND INTEGRATION IN THE ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEM Large scale electrolysers at transmission levels Medium and small scale electrolysers at distribution levels Electrolysers combined with wind generation FLEXIBLE ELECTRICAL LOAD The electricity price variations Electrolysis as flexible load ANCILLARY SERVICES ACTIVE POWER CONTROL Active power control on electrolysers Primary active power/frequency control Automatic emergency reserves Secondary active power control (automatic or manual reserves) REACTIVE POWER AND VOLTAGE CONTROL Reactive power control of electrolysers Reactive power reserves, voltage control and short circuit level ELECTROLYZER TECHNOLOGY LARGE COMMERCIAL ELECTROLYZERS FUTURE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

138 139 140 145 147 149 154 156 156 157 157 158 159 160 160 160 160 161 161 162 163 164 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 171 172 172 172 173 173 175 176 176 177 179 182

ADAPTATION OF ELECTROLYSIS IN THE DANISH ENERGY SYSTEM

CONCLUSION

REFERENCES

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1 Introduction
It has been a dream for over a century: a zero-emission energy economy in which power for cars and buildings alike is generated from converting hydrogen in fuel cells that produce no more than electricity, heat and water. Although hydrogen has been used as a fuel at various times for instance as a constituent of town gas in the early 20th century and as a synthetic fuel during wartime, a lot of renewed interest in hydrogen and fuel cell technology has been generated in recent years. Driven by diverse concerns such as depletion of oil resources, climate change, urban air pollution and security of energy supply, rich countries are looking for alternatives to traditional fuels. Recent advances in technology are also bringing the cost of using hydrogen down sharply. The large-scale application of hydrogen technology would involve significant changes in the energy system. Decisions on whether and how to promote hydrogen technology are thus strategic choices over different pathways our energy system will take from today, along with the various environmental, social and economic impacts they entail. In spite of the fact that hydrogen is an inherent component of conventional hydrocarbon fuels, such as oil, natural gas and coal and that it will be used as a fuel long after these non-renewable energy supplies are gone, the public tends to give hydrogen little attention, perhaps forgetting or not realizing that it is used in large quantities every day to fuel cars, heat or cool building, and fertilize grass and crops. It is produced in enormous quantities as an industrial "intermediate" in the production of ammonia, fertilizers, methanol and other chemicals and in the refining of petroleum, but people are unaware of it or its significance in daily life because it maintains a low profile in combination with other elements as gasoline, diesel, natural gas or fertilizer rather than as a free substance in its own name. Spurred mainly by the OPEC crisis in the early '70s, and a growing awareness of the finiteness of natural hydrocarbon supplies, dedicated researchers around the world have been working diligently to develop improved and new ways to split water, the only significant renewable source of hydrogen that is available now and for as long as human life shall survive. The range of approaches being investigated covers a wide variety of electrolytic, thermal and photochemical techniques, and while advances are being made on all these fronts, alkaline water electrolysis has the most significant near-term commercial potential for recovery of hydrogen from water on a large industrial scale. Hydrogen is more and more often mentioned as a solution to the tremendous challenges resulting from the global worming and depletion of oil and gas. However, hydrogen or subsequent synthetic fuels are only energy carriers, i.e. tools to handle the energy. An energy amount equivalent to at least the energy content of the hydrogen (and practically more due to conversion losses) must be supplied by energy sources like e.g. wind, sunshine, biomass or nuclear. It can always be discussed which energy sources are primary and which are not, but from a hydrogen energy point of view, the key thing is that energy from other sources is stored as hydrogen for later conversion. Most of the hydrogen produced worldwide today is from fossil fuels, primarily through steam reforming of natural gas because this has so far been the most cost

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efficient. Fossil fuels can also be subjected to several other reactions (gasification of coal, catalytic decomposition, partial oxidation, etc.) to obtain hydrogen [1]. Unfortunately, this fossil-fuel-based hydrogen is not environmentally benign, does not contribute toward reduction of greenhouse gas emissions [2]. Hydrogen has to be extracted from water in order to avoid the pollution problems and resource limitations of the fossil-fuel-based production technologies [3]. This splitting of water can be achieved through direct electrolysis or via one of the several thermochemical cycles where the net reaction is the decomposition of water. Thermochemical cycles can in principle be very efficient [4], but they require that the energy is provided as heat at very high temperature. Moreover, this high efficiency may not be realized because of the complexity and poor selectivity of the proposed thermochemical systems. As a result, the electrolytic decomposition of water, a relatively well-known and established technology, may possibly be superior to any thermochemical cycle [5, 6]. The production of hydrogen by the electrolysis of water is, in principle, very simple. The basic electrolysis cell consists of a pair of electrodes immersed in a conducting electrolyte dissolved in water. A direct current is passed through the cell from one electrode to the other. Hydrogen is evolved at one electrode, oxygen at the other, and water is thus consumed from solution. In a continuously operating electrolysis cell, pure water is continuously supplied, and a continuous stream of hydrogen and oxygen may be obtained from the electrodes. In practice, electrolysis cells are more complicated, containing various other components that allow them to work efficiently and economically. Because the basic electrolysis cell has no moving parts, it is reliable and trouble-free; and electrolysis represents the least labourintensive method of producing hydrogen. In addition to the trouble-free operation, electrolysis is the most efficient way of generating hydrogen under pressure. Increasing the pressure of operation of the cell results in a higher theoretical voltage requirement to drive the cell, but electrolysis cells normally work more efficiently at a higher pressure; and the gain in efficiency usually more than offsets the extra electrical energy required. An important characteristic of electrolysis is that hydrogen and oxygen are separated at the same time. This benefit is derived at the expense of having to use a high "energy form," namely electric power, as the input to the cell. The rethinking of the energy system away from a fossil based energy system is ongoing, and the idea of a renewable energy based system, perhaps in combination with some form of nuclear power is gaining a wider acceptance then previously. This change is undoubtedly coursed to some extent by the political situation in parts of the world as well as the limitation of resources, but the ever growing driver today is apparently the fear of global warming. If the challenges pinpointed by the IPCC and others shall be met tremendous changes in our energy system is mandatory over a limited period of time. Strongly increased use of renewables requires large scale energy conversion and most likely techniques for large scale storage. There are two reasons for this. 1) The renewable energy production is typically very fluctuating (e.g. wind, solar) and the production will not be able to match the demand if a large fraction of the energy supply is fluctuating like the wind power. 2) The transport sector will for a long time need a fuel which can be stores onboard vehicles and ships. Battery powered vehicles are under steady development, by they still have a long way to go especially in terms of range before they are flexible enough for replacing fuelled vehicles. For heavy transport like trucks the demands are more severe, and for ships and planes battery

16

systems are even more speculative. Even with a future introduction of a certain fleet of battery vehicles, the demand for some sort of fuel will be inevitable. Fuel can to some extend be produced from biomass and waste, but these sources will only partly cover the need. Some countries plan on depending on nuclear power, and this way it might be easier to match the overall energy demand, but it doesnt solve the problem of the transport sector as the energy still has the form of electricity or heat, just like the renewables (apart from biomass and waste). In conclusion, conversion from electricity to a fuel is inevitable in a future energy system, and no matter if this fuel is pure hydrogen or synthetic fuels (methanol, methane, gasoline etc.) the first step is production of hydrogen from water splitting. Although there are a number of methods for water splitting, the only realistic technique for this process at a large scale is called water electrolysis. In the following chapters different aspects of water electrolysis are reviewed.

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2 History of electrolyzers
Luigi Galvani was an Italian physician and physicist who lived and died in Bologna. Galvani attended Bologna's medicine school and became a medical doctor just like his father. In 1783 Galvani dissected a frog at a table where he had been conducting experiments with static electricity; Galvani's assistant touched an exposed sciatic nerve of the frog with a metal scalpel, which had picked up a charge. At that moment, they saw sparks in an electricity machine and the dead frog's leg kick as if in life. The observation made Galvani the first investigator to appreciate the relationship between electricity and animation or life. He is typically credited with the discovery of bioelectricity. Galvani coined the term animal electricity to describe whatever it was that activated the muscles of his specimens. Along with contemporaries, he regarded their activation as being generated by an electrical fluid that is carried to the muscles by the nerves. The phenomenon was dubbed "galvanism," after Galvani, on the suggestion of his peer and sometime intellectual adversary Alessandro Volta. Galvani's report of his

Figure 2-1. Luigi Galvani.

investigations were mentioned specifically by Mary Shelley as part of the summer reading list leading up to an ad hoc ghost story contest on a rainy day in Switzerlandand the resultant novel "Frankenstein"and its electrically reanimated construct.

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Figure 2-2. Galvanis frogs.

Galvani's investigations led shortly to the invention of an early battery, but not by Galvani, who did not perceive electricity as separable from biology. Galvani did not see electricity as the essence of life, which he regarded vitalistically. Thus it was Alessandro Volta who built the first battery, which became known therefore as a voltaic pile.

Figure 2-3. Alessandro Giuseppe Antonio Anastasio Volta

Alessandro Giuseppe Antonio Anastasio Volta, Conte, was professor of physics at the University of Pavia from 1779 and became famous for his work in electricity. Napoleon I made him a count and a senator of the kingdom of Lombardy. Volta invented the so-called Volta's pile (or voltaic pile); the electrophorus; an electric condenser; and the voltaic cell. In most of Galvini's experiments the frogs were mounted on a brass hook and a muscle spasm was caused when a different metal was used to complete an electric arc to the brass hook. This was generally a scalpel, or when testing atmospheric electricity the frog legs were hung against a metal railing during a thunderstorm. The "metallic electricity" did not explain why the frog leg would occasionally jump

19

without two types of metal on a clear day. But as there was no scientific explanation for this, Volta concentrated on the two metal theory. In 1800, he announced a new electrical device, the Voltaic Pile, initially presented as an "artificial electric organ", in controversy with the claimed autonomy of animal electricity. Volta demonstrated that when metals and chemicals come into contact with each other they produced an electrical current. This device was made of alternating disks of zinc and copper with each pair separated by brine soaked cloth. Attaching a wire to either end produces a continuous current of low intensity. This was the first direct current battery. This put an end (for a time) to Galvani's theory of animal electricity. It is interesting to note that Volta described his battery as an electric organ and likened it to the electric organ of the torpedo fish, which had columnar stacks of cells. The effect was, for the first time in history, a method for obtaining a continuous electric current. This first electric battery was described in a letter from Volta to the President of the Royal Society of London, Sir Joseph Banks, dated 20 March 1800. The letter written in French was read at a Royal Society meeting on June, 26 and soon published in the Philosophical Transactions [7]. The untitled original material was given a heading by Banks: On the electricity excited by the mere contact of conducting substances of different kinds. In a letter from Mr. Alexander Volta, F.R.S., Professor of Natural Philosophy in the University of Pavia to the Rt. Hon. Sir Joseph Banks, Bart. K. B. P. R. S..

Figure 2-4. The Voltaic Pile.

On receipt of the letter Banks was also excited. It had to pass through France, which was then at war with Britain, and Volta seems to have expected problems of communication. Possibly for that reason he sent his note in two parts. While waiting for the second part Banks showed the first few pages to Anthony Carlisle, a London surgeon. He began trying to repeat Volta's experiments immediately. Humphry Davy said Volta's work was an alarm bell to experimenters all over Europe and Carlisle was the first to prove him right. In a few weeks Anthony Carlisle, a London surgeon entered a friend, William Nicholson. Together they replicated Volta's experiments, using Nicholson's doubler to

20

show charges on the upper and lower plates. This meant that they had to connect them to the electroscope, and it was not easy to maintain a good contact. To overcome this little problem they added a drop of water to the uppermost disc and inserted the wire in that. They were surprised to note the appearance of a gas, soon shown to be hydrogen. They then took a small tube filled with water from the New River (an artificial channel completed in 1613 to bring water from Hertfordshire to the City) and inserted wires from the Voltaic pile at each end. To their astonishment the other suspected constituent of water, oxygen, did not appear at the same place but at the other wire at a distance of almost two inches. They had discovered electrolysis.

Figure 2-5. William Nicholson (1753 1815)

Figure 2-6. Sir Anthony Carlisle (17681840)

Figure 2-7. A simple electrolyzer illustrating the principle.

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Nicholson and Carlisle used platinum electrodes and separate tubes to collect the gases evolved at each electrode. Hydrogen gas bubbled from around the cathode and oxygen gas from around the anode. The ratio was of two volumes of H2 for every volume of O2. They discovered that the amount of H2 and O2 set free by the current was proportional to the amount of current used. Waiting till the rest of Volta's letter had arrived and been presented to the Royal Society, Nicholson and Carlisle decided to publish their results, and where better than in Nicholson's Journal? This humble periodical was the means for conveying to the world a discovery that led to a new science: electrochemistry. Quickly it published many other results in this field, including descriptions of the Voltaic pile with DIY instructions for making one, and early papers on the subject by Humphry Davy. Not all readers were convinced that actual decomposition had taken place, especially those who had doubts about the new chemistry. Hydrogen and oxygen might be compounds of water with (respectively) positive and negative electricity, they thought. But it did not take long for doubters to be convinced, and Lavoisier's chemistry received an additional boost. Within a few years electrolysis had been used by Davy to isolate sodium, potassium, calcium, strontium, barium, magnesium and lithium. Chemistry would never be the same again. Year by year, the land was becoming less able to provide enough food for the increasing population. Concerns grew in Europe, Asia, Australia and America at the beginning of the 20th century, fuelled by the British chemist William Crookes, who maintained in his famous speech of 1898 that: England and all civilized nations stand in deadly peril of not having enough to eat. Throughout the centuries, natural fertilizers had been the most important means of increasing crops, but supplies of natural fertilizers depend again on the supply of animal feed animals need to eat in order to produce manure. In his speech, William Crookes indicated where the answer was to be found. Passing a strong electric current between two poles causes the air to catch fire, producing nitrous gases, which contain bound nitrogen. Many people became interested in this question from both a theoretical and an industrial point of view. An intense technological competition arose, and a number of patents were taken out in several countries. Two Americans, Bradley and Lovejoy, together with the company Atmospheric Products Co., developed a method they believed would be successful at the Niagara Falls in the U.S. However, although they had access to inexpensive hydroelectric power, the method didnt work as planned. Their equipment was damaged after a short time, and by 1904 they had given up. There was widespread work in Germany to find a practical solution. In 1903, Professor Frank revealed that he had produced nitrogen compounds from calcium carbide. The resulting product, calcium cyanamide, contained around 20 per cent nitrogen, and could be used as fertilizer. One of the German companies that started working on arc technology after 1898 was BASF (Badische), under the leadership of the chemist Otto Schnherr and the electrical engineer Johannes Hessberger. Progress was slow, and sometimes the work stopped altogether. In the autumn of 1903, Badische was contacted by a Norwegian engineer, Sam Eyde. This seemed to lead to renewed efforts on a broad front to find the best technology for extracting nitrogen from the air. The articles Explosive winter days in 1903 and A project of calibre illustrate the connection. The

22

inquiries by Eyde were no coincidence. There was someone in Norway a poor country at the time in a union with Sweden who was trying to come up with the invention that Crookes had said, would be epoch-making for mankinds progress. Releasing nitrogen from the air requires great amounts of energy, and that energy could be harnessed from Norways plentiful waterfalls. Electricity could be produced more cheaply in Norway than almost anywhere else. In the autumn of 1903, Sam Eyde and one of his partners, the Swedish industrialist Knut Tillberg, campaigned to gain the interest of both German and Swedish investors. Towards the end of the year, two Swedish investors, the halfbrothers Knut and Marcus Wallenberg, joined the project. This led to the establishment of the company Elektrokemisk Elkem, which is now a major international supplier of metals and materials. Notodden, in the south of Norway, was chosen as the site for taking the leap from laboratory to factory. The area was ideal, as a hydroelectric power station had already been built there in 1901. The nitrate company Notodden Salpeterfabriker AS was established in Notodden in 1904, and from the autumn of that year, construction was in full swing. Outside a select circle, it was still unclear what the investors were expecting from the Notodden plant. Isnt it an experimental unit? asked a local newspaper. The date is 24 September 1904, and the question is directed to the 26 year old engineer Sigurd Kloumann, who is in charge of the construction job. No, he answers. Its a factory. Production began in Notodden on 2 May, 1905, with around 100 workers employed at the factory. This was envisaged as a first step towards a much larger project, but these plans would soon change. The foundation of Norsk Hydro should have taken place earlier, but these were busy men who had to find time to meet. The papers were finally signed on 2 December, 1905 in Sam Eydes office in Christiania (now Oslo). The company was named Norsk hydro-elektrisk Kvlstofaktieselskab later known as Norsk Hydro, or just Hydro for short.

Figure 2-8. Norwegian engineer, Sam Eyde.

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This was one of Eydes periods of glory. He was proud to relate that the Notodden plants were now producing nitric acid, calcium nitrate and nitrite. Calcium nitrate, which has not previously been on the market, can be used in industry, and also as Chilean saltpetre. Tests at various agricultural schools, in particular at Aas Agricultural College by the head of the college, Mr. Sidelien, have shown that calcium nitrate is as good as natural saltpetre and even somewhat better on sandy soil. Waterfalls would be developed and plants would be built. In 1927 150 Electrolyser Units for Ammonia production have started at Rjukan, Norway. Installed capacity was 30,000 Nm3/h, 150 MW. Enormous sums would be invested. But there was no cause for concern. The new industry would not market its products only in our little country, but all around the world, as Eyde explained. This date, 2 December, is still celebrated in the company every year as Hydros birthday. In Denmark the first experiences with applied water electrolysis were obtained by Poul la Cour [8], the leader of the folk high school Askov. He set erected the first electricity producing windmill in Denmark in 1891. He soon became interested in electrolysis in order to store the energy and use it for illumination at the school. After some experiments with home made electrolyzers he got in contact with Professor Pompeo Garuti in Italy who had invented an electrolyzer for use at a weapon factory, and in 1894 he received the electrolyzers from Garuti. The produced hydrogen was distributed in the buildings and used in special hydrogen lamps. As the hydrogen flame is practically invisible, a refractory body was heated by the flame and visible light was emitted from it. This way la Cour made what might have been the first attempt to a local hydrogen society. He also experimented with hydrogen powered combustion engines, but with less success.

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3 Fundamentals of electrolysis
Many different types of electrolysis cells have been proposed and constructed. The different electrolysis cells can be divided into groups based on the electrolyte. Table 3-1 presents an overview of the different types of cells. All the cells presented in Table 3-1 are capable of using H2O as reactant to produce H2. However, only the solid oxide cell is capable of using CO2 to produce CO.
Table 3-1. Electrolysis cells and their specialties according to [9] Type Alkaline Acid Polymer electrolyte Solid oxide

Charge carrier Reactant Electrolyte Electrodes Temperature

OHWater Sodium or Potassium hydroxide Nickel 80 oC

H+ Water Sulphuric or Phosphoric acid Graphite with Pt, polymer 150oC

H+ Water Polymer

O2Water, CO2 Ceramic

Graphite Nickel, with Pt, ceramics polymer 80oC 850oC

The aim of this chapter is to give an overview of the thermodynamics and general processes in an electrolysis cell. In general, the electrolysis cell consists of two electrodes and an electrolyte. The electrolyte may be a liquid (alkaline or acid) or a solid (polymer electrolyte or solid oxide). It serves to conduct ions (the charge carrier) produced at one electrode to the other. In order to avoid a short circuit inside the cell, the electrolyte has to be electron insulating. The overall electrolysis reaction (H2O H2 + O2 or CO2 CO + O2) is a sum of two electrochemical reactions (also called half-cell reactions), which occur at the electrodes. The electrode where the reduction of reactants or intermediates takes place is called the cathode. The anode is the electrode where oxidation of reactants or intermediates takes place. In Table 3-2 is shown the half-cell reactions for the different types of electrolysis cells shown in Table 3-1. In order to facilitate the electrode reactions, the electrodes have to be electron conducting and catalytic active. Usually porous electrodes are used to maximize the number of active sites in order to increase the activity and minimize material costs. In most designs the porous structure is crucial to allow the reactants and products to enter/exit the active sites in the electrode.

25

Table 3-2. Half-cell reactions for the different types of electrolysis cells. Type Alkaline Acid Polymer electrolyte Solid oxide

Charge carrier Cathode reaction Anode reaction

OH-

H+

H+

O2-

H2O + 2e- H2 + O22H2O + 2e- 2H+ + 2e- 2H+ + 2eor H2 + 2OH- H2 H2 CO2 + 2e- CO + O2H2O H2O 2OH- H2O O2 + O2 + O2- O2 + 2e+ O2 + 2e2H+ + 2e- 2H+ + 2e-

3.1 Thermodynamics
3.1.1 Temperature
Both H2O and CO2 electrolysis become increasingly heat consuming with temperature. Hence at elevated temperatures a significant part of the total energy demand can be provided as heat according to Figure 3-1. This provides an opportunity to utilize the Joule heat that is inevitably produced due to the passage of electrical current through the cell. In this way, the overall electricity consumption and, thereby, the H2 and/or CO production price can be reduced.

Figure 3-1: Thermodynamics of H2O and CO2 electrolysis at 0.1 MPa.

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3.1.2 Thermo-neutral voltage

The thermo-neutral voltage is defined as:

ETn

H f
nF

G f
nF

T S f nF

(4)

where H f is the formation enthalpy change (see Figure 3-1), G f is the Gibbs
free energy change, S f is the formation entropy change, T is the temperature in Kelvin, n is the number of electrons involved in the electrolysis reaction and F is Faradays constant. Hence, if the cell voltage equals ETn all the produced Joule heat is utilized. If the cell voltage is above ETn the cell produces surplus heat (waste heat). If the cell voltage is below ETn, the produced Joule heat does not meet the heat demand and the cell cools down if heat is not provided by other means. For both H2O and CO2 electrolysis, ETn at 0.1 MPa, 25 C is 1.48 V. At 950 C, it is 1.29 V and 1.46 V respectively. Hence, electrolysis of a H2O/CO2 mixture at 950 C can be performed at thermo-neutral conditions at a cell voltage between 1.29 V and 1.46 V depending on the H2O/CO2 electrolysis ratio.

3.1.3 Pressure
The equilibrium voltage, also called the reversible voltage or the electromotive force, is determined by Gibbs free energy of water splitting and is thereby a function of both pressure and temperature. The equilibrium voltage is the cell voltage at no current load. It is equal to

G f nF

(5)

where G f is the electric energy demand, see Figure 3-1.

is also described by the Nernst equation

= 0 RT ln
nF

PH2O PH2 PO2

(6)

where 0 is the Nernst potential at standard pressure, R is the gas constant and T is the temperature in Kelvin. PH2O is the H2O partial pressure, PH2 is the hydrogen partial pressure and PO2 is the oxygen partial pressure. If the compositions of reactants and products at the two electrodes differ, a cell voltage is established. Incidentally, equals 0.93 V at 950 C for both the H2O and CO2 electrolysis reactions. It follows from equation (6) that increases with the overall pressure P:

27

RT 1 ln , nF P

(7)

if we assume the overall pressure to be equal at both electrodes. At 850 C an increase in the overall pressure from 1 atm to 200 atm corresponds to an increase in by 0.13 V. Although the cell voltage increases with pressure, pressurization may be advantageous due to two main reasons: 1) Reduction of the internal cell resistance, and 2) pressurization by means of heat (SOEC) or by an electrochemical overpotential i.e. electrolysis with H+ or OH- conducting electrolytes, where the H2 is evolved at the opposite electrode of the water supply. In alkaline electrolysers pressure is known to reduce the internal resistance. In solid oxide cells the impinging ratio of the gaseous reactant increases with pressure which theoretically reduces the internal resistance. This has been experimentally verified when the cell is operated as a fuel cell.[10,11] To the best of our knowledge, no experiments with pressurized solid oxide electrolyser cells (SOECs) have been published. If the electrolysis reaction is performed high temperature, the pressure can be achieved by heating (and thereby pressurizing) the inlet water. At 213 C, the vapour pressure is 20 atm. and at 287 C it is 70 atm. Such "low temperature" heat may be cheaper than electricity. Hence, the pressurization in the electrolyser may be cheaper than pressurization by means of electric pumps as electrolysis cells are significantly more efficient than pressurization pumps.

3.2 Efficiency
The efficiency, , of the electrolysis process may be calculated as the higher heating value (HHV) of one mole of the product divided by the energy consumption, W, used to produce one mole of the product. W includes the electricity and heat used for the electrolysis reaction plus energy losses of any kind, i.e.

HHV HHV HHV = = W Electricity + Heat + Loss U nF + Heat + Loss

(8)

where U is the cell voltage. HHV = H fo where H fo is the formation enthalpy change at 0.1 MPa and 25 C for one of the electrolysis reactions. If the electrolysis cell is operated at or above ETn, all the heat for the electrolysis reaction is supplied by Joule heat produced within the cell. Hence, equation (8) can be rewritten as

H fo U nF + Loss

o o ETn nF ETn Loss , L' = = U nF + Loss U + L ' nF

(9)

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o ETn is the thermo neutral potential at 0.1 MPa and 25 C. For all the cell types, designs can be chosen, so that losses such as heat loss to the surroundings, electrical leakage through the cell, gas leaks etc. are quite small. Hence, if the cell is operated at o ETn the cell can be operated with efficiency close to 100%. A high efficiency is of course beneficial, however, an economically optimized production is usually more important. In order to optimize the production economy a high production rate is necessary. The higher the cell voltage is increased above the higher is the current density and in turn the production rate. When the cell voltage o increases above ETn , surplus heat is produced and the efficiency decreases according to (9). Todays alkaline cells are typically operated at ~1.9V or higher in order to optimize the production economy. In section 3.4 it is shown for SOECs that it is possible to achieve economically optimized production costs and at the same time keep the cell voltage at ETn or slightly above.

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4 Types of electrolyzers
4.1 Alkaline electrolyzers
Alkaline electrolyte electrolyzers represent a very mature technology that is the current standard for large-scale electrolysis. The anode and cathode materials in these systems are typically made of nickel-plated steel and steel respectively. The electrolyte in these systems is a liquid one based on a highly caustic KOH solution. The ionic charge carrier is the hydroxyl ion, OH-, and a membrane porous to hydroxyl ions, but not to H2 and O2 provides gas separation. Key advantages of this technology include its maturity and its durability. Key disadvantages are its use of a highly caustic electrolyte and its inability to produce hydrogen at high pressures. This inability to produce high pressure hydrogen for storage results in the added need for an external compressor, which adds cost and complexity to the system.

4.1.1 The cell

In their basic design, water electrolyzers are quite simple Figure 1. They consist essentially of anodes and cathodes isolated from one another by semi-permeable membranes or separators, usually asbestos, all submerged in electrolyte, usually KOH, held in some form of container. Direct current is passed through the cell and water is decomposed to generate hydrogen on the cathodes and oxygen on the anodes. The two gases are kept away from one another by the separators. The voltage drop across the cell is a measure of its energy efficiency, i.e. the percentage of energy in the electricity that is converted to hydrogen.

Figure 4-1. Alkaline water electrolysis cell.

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When a current is passed through water, the molecules accept electrons from the cathode, where their hydrogen's are reduced to H2 gas. The half-cell reaction is 4H2O(l) + 4e- 2H2(g) + 4OH-(aq) (10)

Other water molecules donate electrons to the anode, where oxygen gas is produced: 2H2O(l) O2(g) + 4H+(aq) + 4e(11)

The OH- ions and H+ ions produced by the electrolysis combine to produce water again: 4OH-(aq) + 4H+(aq) 4H2O(l) (12)

and the net result is the breakdown of water to hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, with no net change in the concentrations of H+ and OH-: 4H2O(l) + 4e- 2H2(g) + 4OH-(aq) 2H2O(l) O2(g) + H+ (aq) + 4e4OH-(aq) + 4H+(aq )4H2O(l) 2H2O(l) 2H2(g) + O2(g)

(13)

The hydrogen molecules accumulate on the surface of the electrode until a bubble forms, breaks away, and rises to the surface of the electrolyte. At the oxygen electrode, a similar process occurs in which hydroxyl ions are discharged by giving up their electrons to the electrode and reacting to form water and oxygen. The oxygen molecules accumulate into gas bubbles and rise to the surface. Both of these electrode reactions require some intermediate catalytic reaction with a metal surface. It is believed that the hydrogen ions discharge on the metal surface to form an adsorbed layer of hydrogen atoms, which then recombine on the surface to form hydrogen molecules. The ease with which the electrode reactions occur is profoundly affected by both the physical and chemical natures of the surfaces of the electrodes. A basic electrolyzer cell consists of the following components: An Electrolyte: This is a water solution made conductive by mixing a salt or compound with water. Selection of the electrolyte is important because it must have the following characteristics: It must exhibit high ionic conductivity; it must not be chemically decomposed by voltage as large as that applied to the cell (so that only water is decomposed); it must not be volatile enough to be removed with the evolved gas; and, because hydrogen-ion concentrations are being rapidly perturbed at the electrodes, the electrolyte should have a strong resistance to pH changes, i.e., it should be a buffer solution. For the most practical applications, these criteria can be met by the use of a strong acid, such as sulphuric acid, or a strong alkali, such as potassium hydroxide (KOH). Most salts are themselves decomposed under electrolysis at voltages likely to be encountered in an electrolyzer cell. Acid electrolytes present severe corrosion problems and are not usually selected for electrolyzers. Therefore, most commercial

31

electrolyzers operate with an alkaline electrolyte. Maximum conductivity occurs in KOH solutions at about a 30% concentration, and this is the concentration usually selected. There is one notable exception to this use of alkaline electrolytes, the use of a solid polymeric ion-exchange material that also has good ionic conductivity. Ionexchange resins having mobile negative ions (in other words, alkaline ion-exchange resins) are notoriously sensitive to chemical degradation at elevated temperatures, and this restricts the choice of ion-exchange electrolytes to acidic systems. The most successful work with ion-exchange electrolytes has been carried out using a polymerized fluorinated polystyrene sulphonic acid. Electrodes That Have the Following Characteristics: They must be electronic conductors; they must have a suitable catalytic surface for the discharge of hydrogen or hydroxyl ions; they must provide a large area interface between the catalyst and the electrolyte; they must provide adequate sites for nucleation of gas bubbles; and they must provide a reasonable means for the detachment of gas bubbles so that they may separate themselves from the electrolyte at the operating voltage of the cell. The form of the electrodes varies considerably from one cell design to another. Large surface areas are obtained by the use of sintered structures, finned bodies, screens, perforated plates, and flat plates with electrochemically roughened surfaces. In the alkaline cells, nickel is the most commonly used catalytic surface. Rather than making electrodes out of solid nickel, nickel-plated mild steel is often used. The application of precious-metal catalysts, such as platinum, assists the electrode processes considerably and allows them to proceed more rapidly than on nickel, but the extra cost of the precious metal is not usually considered justified. In the case of the polymeric acid electrolyte, electrodes must be made of more chemically resistant materials than nickel or steel. Tantalum and gold have been used, while the precious metals themselves, platinum, rhodium, iridium, etc., are usually considered necessary as catalysts. When platinum is used, a large surface area can be obtained by the use of so-called platinum black, a finely divided powder of platinum metal particles. A Separator: Required between the two electrodes, this serves the following purposes. It prevents the electrodes from touching each other and shorting out, and it prevents the hydrogen and oxygen gases from mixing together inside the cell. To provide this function properly, the separator must consist of a porous diaphragm or matrix through which the electrolyte solution can pass, affording an ionic conducting path from one side of the cell to the other. These pores must remain full of liquid so that gas cannot penetrate them. Additionally, the separator material must not be corroded by the electrolyte in the presence of hydrogen or oxygen gas, and it must remain structurally stable for the entire operating life of the cell so that the pores do not collapse. To keep the ionic resistance of the cell as low as possible, the separator is usually made in the form of a thin sheet, the thickness of which is determined by mechanical strength and gas crossover limitations. In the case of alkaline cells, asbestos has commonly been used for the separator material. Woven asbestos cloth and matted asbestos fibres are both used in commercial cells. Some experimental materials, including potassium titanate, have been used in other alkaline cells. In the case of the polymeric acid ion-exchange resin, this material acts as its own separator; and no additional material is needed.

32

A Container: This serves to hold the electrolyte. In some cells, a nickel-plated steel tank with a lid is used, while in others, solid metal sheets are interposed between the electrodes, which are then stacked together with peripheral gaskets used to seal the outer edges. This way, no separate container is required, and current is passed from one electrode to the next through the metal separator plate.

4.1.2 Stacks and systems

In addition to the basic components of the electrolyzer cell itself, an electrolyzer "system" requires further components. These include power-conditioning equipment to convert ac power to the dc current required by the cell; electrical bus bar equipment to distribute the dc power to the various electrodes in an assembly of electrolyzer cells; gas-exit pipe work to duct the hydrogen and oxygen away from the cell; separation systems to separate the gases from the electrolyte, which may be entrained with the gas or deliberately circulated out of the cell with the gas; cooling systems to remove waste heat from the cell itself; and drying systems to dry the hydrogen and oxygen after they have been generated. The electrolyte used in the conventional alkaline water electrolyzers has traditionally been aqueous potassium hydroxide (KOH), mostly with solutions of 20 30 wt % because of the optimal conductivity and remarkable corrosion resistance of stainless steel in this concentration range [12]. The typical operating temperatures and pressures of these electrolyzers are 70 100C and 130 bar, respectively. Water electrolyzers traditionally have been grouped in two classifications-unipolar and bipolar [13,14]. The oldest form of industrial electrolysis of water uses the tank electrolyzer in which a series of electrodes, anodes and cathodes alternately, are suspended vertically and parallel to one another in a tank partially filled with electrolyte. Alternate electrodes, usually cathodes, are surrounded by diaphragms that prevent the passage of gas from one electrode compartment to another. The diaphragm is impermeable to gas, but permeable to the cell's electrolyte. The whole assembly is hung from a series of gas collectors. A single tank-type cell usually contains a number of electrodes, and all electrodes of the same polarity are connected in parallel, electrically, as pictured in Figure 2. This arrangement allows an individual tank to operate across a 1.9 to 2.5 volt dc supply. In general, the cost of electrical conductors increases as the current load increases, but the cost of ac-dc rectification equipment per units of output decreases as the output voltage increases. This is one important consideration in the design of tanktype electrolyzers. There are two major advantages to tank-type electrolyzers: (1) Relatively few parts are required to build a tank-type electrolyzer, and those parts that are needed are relatively inexpensive. Because of this feature, tank-type electrolyzers tend to optimize at a lower thermal efficiency than do more sophisticated electrolyzer structures. Therefore, tank-type electrolyzers are usually selected when electric-power costs are at their lowest; (2) Individual cells may be isolated for repair or replacement simply by shortcircuiting the two adjacent cells with a bus bar. This feature allows maintenance to be carried out with a minimum of downtime for the entire plant.

33

Figure 4-2. Schematic diagram of a unipolar (tank-type)

The major disadvantages of tank-type electrolyzers are: (a) their inability to operate at high temperatures because of heat losses from the large surface areas; (b) their requirements for more floor space than other types of electrolyzers (a disputed point); and (c) the difficulty of designing the tanks to operate at high pressures. The Canadian industrial program at the beginning of 1980s has selected the unipolar design for development of advanced electrolyser technology13. Electrolyzers of the bipolar design, on the other hand, may consist of a single massive assembly of a relatively large number of electrodes, each of which is cathodic on one side and anodic on the other (Figure 4). The assembly is held together by a number of heavy longitudinal tie bolts, in a manner similar to that of the plate-andframe filter press. Each electrode is insulated from, and electrically in series with its neighbour; and each pair of electrodes, with separating diaphragm, forms an individual cell unit. The direction of current flow is from one end of the "cell pack" to the other. A bipolar electrolyser may thus contain from twenty to several hundred individual cells in series at 1.7-2.0V each, so that the corresponding applied voltage ranges from 35 to 600V D.C., depending on required output capacity.

34

Figure 4-3. A bipolar stack.

Electrolyzers of the bipolar design, on the other hand, may consist of a single massive assembly of a relatively large number of electrodes, each of which is cathodic on one side and anodic on the other (Figure . Principle of a bipolar electrolyzer design One advantage of the bipolar electrolyzer stacks is that they are more compact than monopolar systems. The advantage of the compactness of the bipolar cell design is that it gives shorter current paths in the electrical wires and electrodes. This reduces the losses due to internal ohmic resistance of the electrolyte, and therefore increases the electrolyzer efficiency. However, there are also some disadvantages with bipolar cells. One example is the parasitic currents that can cause corrosion problems. Furthermore, the compactness and high pressures of the bipolar electrolyzers require relatively sophisticated and complex system designs, and consequently increases the manufacturing costs. The relatively simple and sturdy monopolar electrolyzers systems are in comparison less costly to manufacture. Nevertheless, most commercial alkaline electrolyzers manufactured today are bipolar. As an alternative to tank-type electrolyzers, more recent electrolyzer designs use stacks so that the positive electrode of one cell is directly connected to the negative electrode of the next. An assembly of cells has superficial resemblance to a filter press because the electrolyte is manifolded to flow through each cell in parallel while hydrogen and oxygen exit lines are similarly manifolded through the stack. Figure 5 is a schematic of a filter-press cell construction. This type of cell is sometimes called a bipolar cell (in contrast to the monopolar assembly in the tanktype cell) because each electrode is used with one face as the positive electrode of one cell and the opposite face as the negative electrode of the next cell.

35

Figure 4-4. Filter-press (bipolar) cell construction.

In practice, filter-press-type cells are usually constructed with separate electrodes in each cell that are electrically connected through a solid metal separator plate that serves to keep the hydrogen cavity of one cell separate from the oxygen cavity of the next. Because the cells of the filter-press-type electrolyzer can be relatively thin, a large gas output can be achieved from a relatively small piece of equipment. It is usually necessary to cool the cells by circulating the electrolyte through them, and the electrolyte exiting from the cell carries with it the gas produced. In many designs, separation of the gas from the electrolyte is accomplished in a separating drum mounted on top of the electrolyzer. The electrolyte, free of gas, is re-circulated through the cells. The major advantages of filter-press-type electrolyzers are that: (a) they take up less floor space than the tank-type design; (b) they are more amenable to operation at high pressures; (c) they are more amenable to operation at high temperatures. The major disadvantages are that: (a) they require a much closer tolerance in construction because of sealing problems, and; (b) they are more difficult to maintain because if one cell fails, the entire battery has to be dismantled and production of hydrogen is lost. Filter-press electrolyzers usually present higher capital costs per unit area than tank- type cells, and, to compensate for this, they are operated at higher current densities. The bipolar design has been universally accepted as offering the most potential for incorporation of advanced technology [15- 19]. This is in part due to the intangible attractions of the highly-engineered bipolar cells, and to the recent development of new bipolar concepts for application in cost-insensitive aerospace applications. Also, cost and performance projections for bipolar electrolyser equipment have been erroneously compared with data for early unipolar plants, which are not representative of the potential of the unipolar approach. There is, in fact, a clear distinction between unipolar electrolyser technology [20- 23] and the older designs on which most published comparisons with bipolar equipment have been based. In new advanced alkaline electrolyzers the operational cell voltage has been reduced and the current density increased compared to the more conventional electrolyzers. Reducing the cell voltage reduces the unit cost of electrical power and thereby the operation costs, while increasing the current density reduces the
1 1 1 2 2

36

investment costs [12]. However, there is a conflict of interest here because the ohmic resistance in the electrolyte increases with increasing current due to increasing gas bubbling. Increased current densities also lead to increased overpotentials at the anodes and cathodes. Three basic improvements can be implemented in the design of advanced alkaline electrolyzers: (1) new cell configurations to reduce the surface-specific cell resistance despite increased current densities (e.g., zero-gap cells and low-resistance diaphragms), (2) higher process temperatures (up to 160 oC) to reduce the electric cell resistance in order to increase the electric conductivity of the electrolyte, and (3) new electrocatalysts to reduce anodic and cathodic overpotentials (e.g., mixed-metal coating containing cobalt oxide at anode and Raney-nickel coatings at cathode). In the zero-gap cell design the electrode materials are pressed on either side of the diaphragm so that the hydrogen and oxygen gases are forced to leave the electrodes at the rear. Most manufacturers have adopted this design14.
Cell Container The material qualities required for the cell container are: high chemical resistance, high mechanical strength, good insulation properties, good machinability and a cost as low as possible. In the case of water electrolysis, steel (mild steel) is more frequently used as the container material for the cells. Parts in danger of corrosion are protected by nickel plating or by other cheaper insulation materials such as rubber, compressed asbestos, ebonite, alumina, cement or Teflon. On the other hand, synthetics such as polyethylene, a number of types of nylon, and epoxy resins have so far proved to have an inadequate working life under the conditions of electrolysis [24]. Electrolyzer-System Designs A total electrolyzer system consists of all the equipment necessary for the process, from the input of electrical power to the output of hydrogen and oxygen gas at the appropriate purity and pressure levels. In addition to the electrolyzer cell module itself, which has already been described, three major subsidiary systems can be used in various forms. Power Supply: For relatively large-scale electrolyzer systems, power is usually supplied from a three-phase, high-voltage line. To convert this into the relatively lowvoltage dc power needed for the electrolyzer cell, a combination transformer rectifier unit is usually used. There is a trade-off to be made in the design of the transformerrectifier system, which can provide dc at relatively high or relatively low voltages. By connecting the cells in series, high-voltage dc systems can be used, and this can have some cost advantages in the requirements for transformers and rectifiers. For reasonably large systems, dc voltages of 70 to 100 volts are usually used. Clearly, this is not possible with very small units because a large number of very small cells would be needed. The cost of a transformer-rectifier system is considerable and can represent as much as one-third to one-half of the cost of the entire system. If electric power is being generated onsite, some consideration should be given to the direct generation of dc power and to the use of this for electrolysis. There seem to be no examples of this in other electrochemical installations, for example, in chloride caustic plants or

37

aluminium-smelting installations that use on site power. However, recent developments in the technology of acyclic or dc generators may make the direct reduction of dc power more promising. Modern, acyclic dc generators operate only at low voltages and this implies the use of very large currents, very large bus bars to distribute the power to the electrolyzer cells, and very complicated switch gear for handling high-current, low-voltage dc. On the other hand, dc generators apparently can be produced for about the same cost as ac generators; and the use of the dc system could considerably reduce capital costs that would otherwise be required in the provision of transformer rectifier units. At present, not enough information is available to draw any conclusions about the relative merits and disadvantages of the ac versus dc supply systems. Cooling Systems: Because electrolyzer cells are not, in fact, 100% efficient, a considerable amount of waste heat is generated in the electrolyzers and must be removed from the cells. There are several ways of doing this: (a) by circulating electrolyte, (b) by circulating hydrogen, (c) by circulating water through the cell, and (d) by circulating water through a heat exchanger in contact with the cell. Circulation of electrolyte requires a pump capable of handling a corrosive liquid at relatively high temperatures and possibly at a high pressure. If electrolyte is circulated through a common manifold through a large number of cells connected in series, then a high voltage is applied to it from one end of the manifold to the other. This induces a short circuit through the electrolyte, thus utilizing only the electrodes at either end of the cell stack. There is a trade-off between the reduction of this shortcircuit current or "shunt current," which results in low current efficiency of the entire cell stack, and the deliberate introduction of high-resistance paths in the electrolyte circulation loop, which result in a requirement for high circulating pumping power. In some types of cells, notably the tank-type cells in which the electrolyte in each cell is kept entirely separate from that in all others, these shunt currents are not possible. The circulation of electrolyte in these cells is usually provided by the gas-lift effect of the gases being evolved at the electrodes. Thus, very little parasitic energy is required, and no electrolyte circulating pump is needed. However, the circulation rates achieved by this means are not usually sufficient to remove the generated heat from the cell, but simply serve to stir up the electrolyte to reduce concentration gradients resulting from the removal and replacement of water. Hydrogen itself can be used as a heat transfer material by circulating it repeatedly through the cell. Again a circulating pump is required that can handle hydrogen, sometimes in the presence of traces of electrolyte. Hydrogen is withdrawn from the circulating loop at the rate at which it is produced at the electrode, and the circulating loop contains the heat exchanger by which the waste heat of the cell is removed. In the SPE-type cell, it is possible to circulate water through the cell, in contact with the electrolyte, without leaching out the electrolyte itself. This approach is not possible in a cell that uses an aqueous electrolyte solution; and, in this case, a separate water compartment must be used. This is easier to achieve in a tank-type cell than in a filter-press type, although water-cooled plates can be built into stack-type cells. In some tank cells, a water chest, to act as a heat-removing mechanism, is incorporated into the design of the tank itself. One of the problems of operating electrolyzer cells at very high pressures is that the auxiliary equipment, including the cooling system, would also have to be operated at high pressures; and thus the cost of even electrolyte and feed-water pumps, which in an atmospheric system would be insignificant, can become considerable. Gas-Removal Systems: Once gas has been generated at the electrodes, it must be

38

removed from the electrolyzer cell and conditioned to the temperatures, pressures, and purity levels required by the customer. There are two ways of removing the gas from the cell. One is to allow it to be entrained in the flowing stream of electrolyte, bringing both out from the cell together, and passing the stream through an external separator. This usually makes the design of the electrolyzer cell itself simpler, but requires extra equipment for the separation of electrolyte from the gas. Clearly, two separator systems would be required, one for hydrogen, and one for oxygen. The second method is to allow the gas to separate itself from the electrolyte within the cell and then remove it as a gas stream only. In this case, it is likely to carryover a spray of electrolyte, and a spray trap of some sort is needed. Once hydrogen and oxygen have been removed from the cell, they must be dried because they are produced from the cell saturated with water vapour. After drying, they must be compressed if the cell is not operating at the required delivery pressure. This need for an external compressor increases the parasitic load or energy requirement of the overall cell system. The removal of small traces of oxygen from the hydrogen stream can be accomplished by use of a so-called "deoxo" catalyst. This is usually a high-surface area palladium catalyst, supported on asbestos, which has the effect of causing the traces of oxygen to combine with hydrogen to form water. Because oxygen and water vapour are the only major impurities likely to be found in electrolytic hydrogen, drying and oxygen removal are the only purification steps necessary for obtaining very high purity hydrogen.

4.1.3 State of art

Separator materials for use in alkaline water electrolyzers Diaphragm The purpose of the diaphragm in an electrolysis cell which produces gases at either electrode is threefold [25]: (1) The diaphragm has to prevent unhindered intermixing of catholyte and anolyte. The gas evolution at both electrodes forms a two-phase mixture of electrolyte with more or less dispersed bubbles so that intermixing of anolyte and catholyte always means intermixing of the two gases which should be prevented strictly in order to obtain high gas purities and current efficiencies, respectively. (2) The diaphragm must form an efficient diffusion barrier for the gas molecules in order to prevent contamination of the evolved gases by molecular diffusion of the gas which is generated at the respective counter electrode. (3) The diaphragm may be used further to prevent, very efficiently, the formation of a gas bubble curtain at the front side of the electrodes just by pressing the electrodes onto the, more or less, elastic diaphragm. Most important for all three purposes is that clogging of the diaphragm pores by gas bubbles, which may either intrude into the pore mouths or which may precipitate out within the pores from gas-supersaturated electrolyte solutions, must be excluded completely unless the electrical resistance of the diaphragm increases in an uncontrolled manner. Bubble formation in small cavities, pores, etc. of radius r may only be observed if a certain degree of supersaturation is established:

39

P Psat. 2 r

(14)

Owing to gas evolution at the back side of the electrodes, i.e. in greater distance from the diaphragm, the supersaturation of the gas in the electrolyte which contacts or diffuses or drifts into the diaphragm pores will be largely reduced. Under a working pressure of 3060 bars, supersaturation pressures of hydrogen and oxygen of no more than a few bars will exist at the diaphragm surface*. According to equation (14) for surface tensions of the electrolyte of approx. 200 dyn cm-1, pore diameters of some micrometers will prohibit gas clogging of the diaphragm reliably. The diaphragm must additionally offer a sufficiently high hydrodynamic resistance to retard intermixing of oxygen saturated anolyte with hydrogen saturated catholyte due to occasional pressure differences between the cathodic and anodic compartments. By knowledge of the solubility of oxygen and hydrogen in caustic potash the maximally permissible fluid dynamic permeability of a diaphragm is estimated [26] to be approx.
k

max 5 cm3 centipoises (cm2 bar s)-1, hydro

(15)

in 50 wt % caustic potash at 60 bars for i = 1 A cm-2. According to this estimation a relatively high surface specific hydrodynamic resistance of the diaphragm is necessary. Nevertheless, the diaphragm must offer only a low electrical surface specific resistance if immersed in the electrolyte. The surface specific electrical resistance must not exceed 0.2 cm2 and should rather be around 150-100 m cm2 in order to avoid too high ohmic potential drops within the diaphragm at current densities around 1 A cm-2. Because of the thermodynamic instability of asbestos (chrysolite) in caustic potash [27] it seems necessary to develop a completely new diaphragm material which is based on a porous refractory structure and which, additionally, would allow to modify the diaphragm properties at will. A good diaphragm should present a low resistance to the flow of current and as far as possible be chemically resistant to the electrolyte. Traditionally asbestos cardboards, papers and woven cloths have been used in alkaline electrolyzers. Increase of the electrolyser temperature above 100C makes this material unsuitable.
Inorganic materials Asbestos Resistance of asbestos to high-temperature electrolyte. The chemical and physical stability of asbestos in alkaline media at high temperatures has been studied by several groups of researchers [28- 32] . J. W. Vogt [28] has examined the chemical degradation of fuel-cell-grade chrysotile asbestos in KOH solutions of 30, 40, 50 and 60 wt. % for 100- and 1000-h periods at temperatures of 50, 100, 150 and 200 C. Sample dissolution was found to increase with increasing time, temperature and KOH concentration. The weight losses attained an upper limit of 40 % except for a few samples. Leached samples retained some of the fibrous structure of asbestos. Large amounts of granular material, brucite (Mg(OH)2), were scattered in the leached
2 3 3

40

samples and filled the remaining fibre clusters. Vogt's report concluded that chrysotile asbestos is not a satisfactory material for extended service at temperatures as high as 100 C, but that the insoluble residue, if it retains a satisfactory structure, might be superior to asbestos. Results of alkaline leaching of other types of asbestos, tremolite, amosite, anthophylite and crocidolite, were similar to those obtained with chrysotile. Leaching treatments of chrysotile and of the other asbestoses with HCI or with sequestering agents gave poor results, leaving behind nearly-pure silica fibres which dissolved readily in alkali. Asbestos stabilization. Crandall and Harada [29] have attempted to improve the resistance of chrysotile asbestos to potassium hydroxide at temperatures greater than 100C. They have identified the asbestos-KOH reaction and studied the effects of environmental parameters on its rate. A highly-converted asbestos matrix was developed. Coating and stabilization studies were also carried out. The reaction between asbestos and KOH at temperatures up to 200 C was established to be Mg3Si2O5(OH)4 + KOH(aq) = 3Mg(OH)2 + Soluble silicates (aq). Debye-Scherrer powder patterns of the residues showed both chrysotile and brucite phases to be present. The deterioration of asbestos was demonstrated to be caused by the leaching of silicon from the asbestos, leaving behind insoluble brucite and soluble potassium silicates. The leached samples retained a fibrous morphology as if the Si-O layers were stripped off, leaving the Mg-OH structure intact. This "converted" asbestos exhibited improved chemical stability suggesting the use of such materials as matrices. The conversion of asbestos fibres to flexible and chemically-resistant bruciteasbestos fibres was best achieved by a repetitive leaching-washing procedure. Composition as well as morphology of the converted material was dependent on the leach-wash cycle conditions; a typical composition of the converted material was 80 % Mg(OH)2 and 20 % asbestos. A product with satisfactory properties was obtained by leaching asbestos in 40 % KOH at 150 C for five 20-hr cycles. Mats formed with the converted asbestos were tested by NASA Lewis Research Center and Pratt and Whitney. The latter found that these mats had unacceptably-low bubble-pressures and lacked stability upon exposure to KOH at 120 C. Similarly, attempts to fabricate brucite matrices were unsuccessful [33]. Crandall and Harada [29] hypothesized that asbestos could be stabilized by addition of suitable amounts of soluble potassium silicate. Results of corrosion studies in 40 % KOH at 150 and 200 C indicated that the corrosion reaction was essentially eliminated with a potassium silicate to potassium hydroxide weight ratio of 1:10, and of 1.5:10 for 60 % KOH solutions. X-ray analyses and S.E.M. examinations of the stabilized samples exposed to 40 % KOH at 200 C for 20 h have shown no change in the chemical and physical structure of the asbestos. The above stabilization process is the subject of U.S. Patent No. 3,891,461 [34]. Harada and Crandall also tried to improve the caustic stability of asbestos by application of a reaction barrier. Attempts to apply TiO2 and ZrO2 by chemical vapour deposition from tetraisopropyl titanate and tetraisopropyl zirconate precursors were unsuccessful. Weight losses for the ZrO2- coated asbestos were about the same as for uncoated asbestos, while those for the TiO2-coated asbestos were somewhat higher. This approach was abandoned in favour of the stabilization and conversion processes.
Potassium titanate

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Fibrous and acicular alkali-resistant potassium titanates have the general formula K2O(TiO2)n. Potassium tetratitanate (n = 4), hexatitanate (n = 6), and octatitanate (n = 8) have been characterized by X-ray diffraction. The tetra- and octatitanates are much more fibrous than hexatitanate. Chemical stability is greatest for the hexatitanates and least for the tetratitanates. The use of these materials as separators in alkaline electrochemical systems has been envisaged for some time by several groups [28,3538]. Vogt [28] has shown P.K.T. (pigmentary potassium titanate) (K2O(H2O)x(TiO2)10-13) to be stable at temperatures as high as 150 C, in 30 to 50 % KOH electrolyte. However, P.K.T. and other potassium titanates such as Fybex or Tipursul, originally fabricated by DuPont, cannot be formed into matrices without a binder. Separators fabricated by Vogt with Teflon extrusion powder as a binder showed generally good stability at temperatures as high as 150 C. These diaphragms were described as being "matrices of inorganic powder incorporated in a network of very fine Teflon fibres". The latter were wettable and had fair gas-sealing properties. Vine and Narsavage [33,36] have also prepared potassium titanate matrices, using Fybex from DuPont. The Fybex material is (K2O)x(TiO2)z, with z/x equal to about 8. Fibre diameters were in the range 0.10-0.15 /m, and typical fibre lengths were 4/um with a range of 2-22/m. No evidence of deterioration was detected for a mixture of 4 % Teflon-3170 and 96 % Fybex, after 3000 h at 120 C in 42 % KOH. 100 % Fybex matrices were prepared but were fragile. Low-bubble pressures were obtained for Fybex compositions bonded with Teflon-3170, screen-printed onto different types of electrodes with several different variations in printing techniques. This approach was abandoned. Another separator fabrication method was preferred which consisted of filtering a 96 % Fybex plus 4 % TFE-3170 water-based composition directly onto fuel-cell electrodes, followed by drying and partial curing of the matrix binder. Bubble pressures of 0.21-0.23 MPa were obtained for 0.75-mm matrix coatings having 90 % porosity. The latter matrices resisted a test of 2300 hours at 120 C with no deterioration. No further tests were done on these matrices, as DuPont had stopped production of Fybex. The authors tested beta silicon nitride (Si3N4) as an alternative without success. Post and co-workers from NASA Lewis Research Center [37] have examined representative forms of potassium titanate for durability in hot caustic, including fibrous tetra- and octatitanates, fibrous variations of tetratitanates and acicular and non-acicular hexatitanates. The purpose of this work was to relate the parameters of the material (i.e. size and shape of particles, chemical and crystallographic characteristics) to its performance in matrices. Ways of improving performance and test methods for screening were explored. However, this work did not include the fabrication of matrices. It was found that P.K.T. is somewhat susceptible to chemical degradation, although it is far superior to asbestos. P.K.T. was considered to be unsuitable for fabrication of matrices due to existence of the fibres in many forms and to the presence of non-fibrous and colloidal matter. Octatitanates were judged to be more suitable. The author also suggested that alkali induced fibrillation of potassium titanate crystal clusters might be used to obtain fibres with lengths in the millimetre range. The necessity of careful dispersion of the titanate fibres in separator fabrication processes was underlined due to the tendency of the fibres to form clusters. Finally, it was emphasized that a fractionation procedure is necessary for evaluation of the potassium titanates, due to the wide range of shapes and sizes which characterizes this material.
3 3

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The electrochemistry division of Compagnie Generale d'Electricite, France has fabricated experimental separators of potassium titanate fibres bonded with P.T.F.E.38. A suspension of stabilized Teflon was mixed with a lubricated paste of potassium titanate fibres. The above mixture was calendared to a thickness of 300m and dried in air at 160 C. 30-40 % Teflon is optimum for obtaining good mechanical properties and low resistivity. Best results were obtained with fibres of 0.5 m diameter and 5 m length. In order to improve further the mechanical properties of the membrane, it was pressed between two nickel expanded-metal sheets. The resistance of a 300 m membrane, measured in 34 % KOH at 25 C was 0.2 to 0.3 cm2 [38a,c]. This is equivalent to 0.1 to 0.2 cm2 at 120 C. Values as low as 0.09-0.10 cm2 had been reported earlier by Appleby and Crepy [38b]. In conclusion, potassium titanates show excellent stability in hot caustic environment. Post [37] suggested that the octatitanates offer the best combination of properties for use as a matrix in alkaline media. Matrices fabricated from potassium titanate alone are too fragile. It is necessary to use a binder such as P.T.F.E. Such matrices have shown excellent ionic conductivity.
Polyantimonic acid A membrane, based on an inorganic cationic ion-exchange material, polyantimonic acid (PAM), has been developed by a Belgian laboratory for use in alkaline water electrolyzers [39- 43]. The Belgian group had tested other ionexchange materials before selecting polyantimonic acid; the latter was preferred over zirconium phosphate, zirconium oxide, tin oxide, bismuth oxide and lead sulphate [43]. Polyantimonic acid was first prepared by Baetsle [39]. The unit cell has the following rather complicated empirical formula [H3Sb3O5(OH)8]3 [H5Sb5O6(OH)18]. Fourteen atoms of hydrogen are exchangeable in theory, corresponding to an ion-exchange capacity of 5.05 meq g-1. An ion-exchange capacity of 2.3 meq g-1 was found for K+ ions at pH = 7, when the material was incorporated in a binder. The ionexchange capacity was only slightly higher for free PAM. PAM has been found to be extremely stable in concentrated alkaline solutions at temperatures to 150 C. Membrane specimens were initially prepared by a low-temperature sheet-rolling technique using Teflon 6 as the binder. The weight ration of PAM to P.T.F.E. was 80:20. Scale-up of the cold-rolling technique for fabrication of sheet sizes of 30cm x 30cm was not successful. A wet-agglomeration technique and other techniques using Teflon fibres, or combinations of Teflon fibres with Teflon powder, were also unsuccessful. Finally, a film casting technique was determined to be appropriate. In the film casting technique, the binder is dissolved in a suitable solvent, and the inorganic material is dispersed in this solution. A film is cast on a glass plate, and the solvent evaporated. Polyvinylidene fluoride (P.V.D.F.) was tested as a binder, but could not resist chemical degradation in the alkaline media at high temperatures. Deterioration of the PAM-P.V.D.F. membrane occurred at temperatures above 60 C. Polyarylethersulfone-PAM (1:2 weight ratio) films were prepared, and were expected to have much better chemical resistance. The membrane resistance of the 0.1 mm thick films dropped from 0.7 cm2 at 25 C to 0.2 cm2 at 95 C. The fabrication process was reasonably reproducible. Tests conducted in 50 % KOH at 120 C for 200h have indicated no dimensional changes or chemical deterioration for the polysulfone-PAM membrane. Gas-tightness measurements showed a maximum of 1 % hydrogen in the oxygen stream when the membrane was tested in an electrolyser; some improvements are needed in this area. Nevertheless, the polysulfone4 4 4

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polyantimonic acid membranes must be regarded as serious candidates for waterelectrolyser use. Further long-term testing in electrolyzers is necessary to confirm the suitability of the material for commercial use.
Other inorganic separators Refractory-type materials. Various inorganic materials, alone or combined with asbestos or an organic binder, were considered as possible separator materials for alkaline electrochemical cells by NASA Lewis Research Center in 1968 [28]. Their study included the following materials: ceria (CeO) powder, zirconia E fibre (neodymia stabilized), TX fibre-nemolite (hydrated magnesia), and pigmentary potassium titanate (P.K.T) from DuPont, boron nitride, beryllium oxide, zirconium silicate, titanium dioxide, and silicon carbide. The following behaved poorly in tests conducted at 100 and 150 C: boron nitride, beryllium oxide, zirconium silicate, and silicon carbide. Ceria and zirconia E fibre showed excellent stability under the test conditions and were chosen as candidate materials. P.K.T. and titania were also retained. TX fibre, although it had good stability, was rejected because of its excessive iron content. The above-selected materials were fabricated into separators by NASA Lewis Research Center, alone or in combination with asbestos. Results with both the composite separators and the inorganic materials alone were disappointing. The fabricated separators were fragile, had poor strength and lacked cohesion when wet. Pressed mats, formed by admixture of Teflon fibres or Teflon emulsion and the preferred inorganic materials, also failed to meet the requirements for good electrochemical separators. The resulting matrices were brittle when dry and semifluid when wet. Another preparation method, based on the tendency of Teflon 6 extrusion powder to convert to fibres under mild shear forces, was tested. The matrices were prepared by blending the Teflon powder with the inorganic materials and sufficient mineral spirits to form mobile slurry. The slurry was filtered on a Buchner funnel, rolled with a rolling pin until the fibre development was judged satisfactory, and then moulded to the desired shape. The optimum Teflon concentration was about 5 % by weight with P.K.T. and 1 % for ceria, zirconia and magnesia. The shearing of the Teflon 6 powder produced a network of very fine fibres, distributed through the bulk of the matrices. The resulting porous mats were flexible, strong and wettable, but were inferior to chrysotile in gas sealing capability and electrolytic resistance. These matrices were nevertheless considered promising. No data are known to have been published on the results of tests performed on full-size matrices. Hausmann [44] has reported preparation of ceramic separator materials which incorporate plastics as binders. No performance results have been presented. Sintered nickel. Some authors have recently suggested the use of porous metallic diaphragms such as sintered nickel as separators in alkaline electrolyzers [4548]. These materials are highly resistant to corrosion, and give good gas purities and ionic-conductivity. Sintered nickel plates, 0.6 mm thick, were tested in 30 % KOH at pressures of 50 bars, temperatures higher than 150 C, and current densities greater than 20 kA m-2 [46]. The major problem with this type of diaphragm is high electronic conductivity, necessitating complete insulation from the electrodes and the electrolyser structures. Failure to achieve this could lead to the diaphragm acting as an electrode (anode or cathode), resulting in the production of an explosive gas mixture. P.T.F.E. spacers and seals were apparently used with some success. Divisek et al.
4 4

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have reduced the electronic conductivity of the nickel structure by converting the nickel surface to an oxide using thermal oxidation in air at high temperatures (>1000 C)48. The electronic resistance of one diaphragm was increased from approximately 10-4 cm to 107 cm, while its resistance to the passage of ions in the electrolyte increased slightly. Such a separator was tested successfully at 110 C for 3000 h in an electrolyser [48]. Metallic diaphragms have several desirable properties, and it seems to be possible to eliminate the problems associated with their electronic conductivity. However, such diaphragms may prove too costly for wide-spread use. Perroud cited a price of $1000 m-2 for nickel sinter, with a possible price-reduction factor of 5 for large quantities46. Prices of other porous metallic diaphragms should be critically examined. Oxide-coated nickel materials. Fischer et al. have suggested coating of nickel "nets" with aqueous slurry of corrosion-resistant ceramic materials, followed by drying and sintering [47]. For example, aqueous slurries of BaTiO3 and BaTiO3 (46%) + ZrO2 (46%) + K2Ti6O13 (4%) + Na2TiO3 (4%) were tested with other mixtures. The ceramic coating so obtained insulates the nickel "net" on both sides. This thin coating would be flexible enough to be bent without cracking around a radius of 3 cm. Ohmic resistances as low as 0.027 cm2 to 0.054 cm2 were obtained for such diaphragms in 30 % KOH at 25 C. The diaphragms were tested in electrolyzers at 252 C and 35 bar pressure, in 50 % KOH. However, no long-term test results were available. These separators might be less expensive than nickel sinters. One group has proposed the fabrication of separators by plasma spraying of inorganic materials, such as ZrO2, MgO and TiO2, on a supporting metal grid or mesh [49]. Ceramic oxides have outstanding chemical resistance in alkaline media; they can not be used unfortunately in the form of thin sintered sheets as these are too brittle and sensitive to thermal shocks. This led to the development of plasma-sprayed inorganic (PSI) membranes, which are fabricated by spraying a molten refractory oxide onto a suitable substrate, with a plasma spray gun. The sprayed material can be coated on the electrodes themselves or on another support. It is possible to control the parameters of the resulting coatings, including thickness, porosity and pore-size distribution. Oxides such as MgO, TiO2 and ZrO2 could be used, according to the authors; MgO was reported however, to convert in hot caustic to Mg(OH)2 which precipitates out of the solution [47]. The supports can be fine- or coarse-mesh gauge, sintered porous sheets, or expanded-metal. The above processes could produce membranes having excellent properties for use in high-temperature alkaline electrolyzers. Some oxide-coated membranes have been shown to have lower resistivities than polyantimonic acid and potassium titanate47. It has yet to be demonstrated, however, that fabrication will be possible at a reasonable cost. Also, satisfactory performance must be demonstrated in long-term electrolysis tests.
Organic materials Organic polymers could provide attractive alternatives for the replacement of the currently-used asbestos, as they can be spun into fibres, and these in turn can be prepared in woven cloths, felts or other non-woven fabrics. Organic polymers could also be prepared as microporous films. Although modern polymers lend themselves to a variety of processes suitable for the preparation of different forms of separator materials only a very few can survive the environmental conditions existing in an alkaline water electrolyser at 150 C or above.

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Some of the polymers suitable for use in water electrolyzers have been tested by Teledyne Energy Systems for fabrication of both structural parts and separators [50,52]. These included polyphenylene sulphide and the polysulphones.
The polysulphones The polysulphones are a family of polymers which have in common sulphone groups (---S---) which provide thermal stability and high temperature rigidity, and ether groups for toughness [53]. Three main types of polysulphones are available: Udel [54a] , a polyarylethersulphone; Radel [54b], a polyphenylsulphone; and Victrex [54c], a polyethersulphone. Astrel 360, a polyarylsulphone which was introduced by 3M Company, has been phased out of production by the Carborundum Company because of high cost and poor processability. Finally, Mindel A-650, modified polysulfone, has been introduced by Union Carbide. The polysulphones possess excellent thermal and oxidative stability. All bonds in the polysulfone structure should be hydrolytically stable, making them stable in alkaline or acid environments even at high temperatures. Reinforced and non-reinforced polysulphones were tested by Teledyne Energy Systems for use in structural parts [50]. The non-reinforced polysulfone behaved satisfactorily in 25 % KOH at 82 C. After 50 weeks, a small weight and dimension change attributed to water absorption was observed. Teledyne contracted Fabric Research Laboratories of Dedham, Massachusetts to prepare fibres of the other polysulphones, and tested porous matrices prepared from the latter by exposure to KOH/O2 and KOH/H2 environments at 150 C [51] . Solution-spun polyarylsulphone fibres of 12 m diameter dissolved completely within 500 h, while 16 m polysulfone (Udel) fibres lost some strength. Results of the above tests led Teledyne to recommend maximum temperatures of 125 C for polysulfone (Udel), and of only 100 C for polyethersulphone (Victrex) and polyarylsulphone (Astrel 360). All tested matrices had inadequate gas retention due to too-large pore diameters and poor wettability of the fibres. Approaches suggested for resolution of this problem were: (i) the use of finer fibres in the preparation of the matrices; (ii) an increase in the polymer critical tension through modification of the surface; and (iii) addition of wetting agents to the electrolyte [52]. British Patent No. 1,435,420 [55] describes a fabrication method for polysulfone fibres with diameters between 0.01 and 21 m. Some matrices were fabricated, according to the patent, with 67 % of the fibres having diameters between 0.25 and 1.0 m. Another way of improving the wettability of the fibres would be to modify the polymer, for example, by addition of anionic groups such as (SO3-) [56] or -COOH. Ultra filtration membranes and anisotropic membranes have been prepared by different companies. One of these, Osmonics Inc., has ultra-filtration membranes available with 25-50 m thickness, and with maximum pore sizes of 50-100 . This is too small a pore size to provide a good wicking of the electrolyte in the separator; the result would be excessively-low ionic conductivity. In summary, the polysulphones are polymers having excellent thermal, oxidative and hydrolytic stability. However, when prepared as fibres, their maximum service temperatures in water electrolyzers are smaller than expected. Hydrophobicity of the material is a serious problem as for other polymers. Improvements are needed in this area.

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Polyphenylene sulfide Ryton, a polyphenylene sulfide thermoplastic resin, was developed by Phillips Petroleum Company [57]. It has excellent thermal and chemical stability. No solvents are known for the polymer below 185-205 C. Ryton is rated for continuous use at temperatures of 170-220 C by Underwriters Laboratories. Fibres of Ryton having a denier of 3-6 were melt spun by Phillips Fibres Corporation. Fibres of 23 m diameter were tested by Teledyne at 150 C in KOH/O2 and KOH/H2 environments. The results of these tests appeared promising as the fibres did not show any loss of tensile strength after a 500 h test period [51]. Fischer et al. indicated that Ryton R6 is stable up to 200 C in 50 % KOH and that it only corrodes slowly in 70 % KOH at 250 C [47]. Unfortunately, due to production problems, Ryton fibres are not presently available. When these problems are resolved, testing of this product will be warranted. Careful attention will have to be given to improving the wettability of the fibres, as for the polysulphones. Polytetrafluoroethylene Polytetrafluoroethylene (P.T.F.E.) belongs to a family of polymers, the fluorocarbons, having excellent chemical and heat resistance. P.T.F.E. has a maximum service temperature of 288 C and is highly resistant to alkaline media. It would be stable up to 260 C in 50 % KOH [47]. Vogt, however, has indicated that Teflon fibres could be dissolved under certain conditions at 200 C in 60 % KOH. It was suggested that the large surface area of the fibres might favour the dissolution of the Teflon [28]. Teflon is available as fibres, porous films or sheets. One of the problems associated with the use of P.T.F.E. in any form as a separator material is its lack of wettability. This favours formation of gas bubbles within the separator and on its surface, thus increasing the contribution of ohmic resistance to the cell voltage, and reducing gas purities. Surface treatments are, therefore, necessary to make Teflon wettable. Grafting of stable anionic or cationic groups onto Teflon could make the surface hydrophilic. However, it is generally recognized that only anionic groups are stable in alkaline media at high temperatures. Radiation grafting of acrylic acid groups on Teflon fabrics in the presence of a crosslinking agent is being studied by Sohm and Mas [58]. Some samples, treated at a low grafting rate in the presence of a cross-linking agent, have shown lifetimes better than 2000 h in KOH at 200 C. Results of life tests under electrolysis conditions at 120 C in 40 % KOH at an applied current density of 10 kA m-2 are not yet available. According to Sohm and Mas, radiation grafting alone would not produce stable anionic groups on the Teflon surface. Another technique for improving wettability of porous Teflon is in-situ formation of potassium titanates in porous Teflon sheets [59a]. Porous Teflon membranes are impregnated with tetrabutyltitanate. The material is then hydrolyzed in hot (60 C) water for 3 h, dried at 350 C, and calendared. A final treatment consists of autoclaving the membrane at 200 C in 30 % KOH for one hour [59b,c]. The result is the formation in the pores of whisker-shaped potassium titanate crystals. Two types of porous Teflon sheet were tested: a collected-fibril type and an expanded-sheet type. The expanded-sheet type did not retain the potassium titanate crystals well. This new type of separator has better ionic conductivity than P.T.F.E. which has been directly impregnated with Fybex potassium titanate; it has good hydrophilic properties, and average pore sizes of 1- 2 m. Ionic resistance values of

47

0.28 cm2 and 0.7 cm2 were obtained respectively for 0.4 mm and 0.7 mm thick separators, in 30 % KOH at 25 C [60]. The potassium-titanate impregnation technique appears most promising for improving the wettability of Teflon membranes. Grafting techniques seem more difficult to use and have yet to be proven for the electrolyser application.
Ion-exchange membranes Ion-exchange membranes, anionic and cationic, are manufactured by a number of companies including DuPont, Ionics, R.A.I. Research Corporation, Tokuyama Soda, Asahi Chemical Industry and Asahi Glass. However, only a few of these membranes can survive 150 C temperatures in alkaline water electrolyzers. Cationic membranes are the more resistant under these conditions; no anionic membranes are available which are stable in alkaline media above 100 C. This is due to instability of the quaternary ammonium compounds used as the source of base; weaker bases could be more stable but would lack conductivity. Cationic ion-exchange membranes having a perfluorinated backbone and with ion-exchange groups such as - SO3 or - COOH are the most stable under waterelectrolysis conditions. Unfortunately, it is not possible to obtain samples of the promising perfluorocarboxylic-acid membranes which are fabricated by Asahi Glass and Asahi Chemical Industry, their policy being to supply membranes only as part of electrochemical systems. Other promising cationic membranes are perfluorosulphonic-acid based membranes fabricated by DuPont and by R.A.I. [61]. Work at Brookhaven National Laboratories has shown Nation 115 and an unidentified membrane from R.A.I. to be promising. A dependence of ionic conductivity of Nation membranes on the type of electrolyte (KOH, NaOH, or LiOH), the caustic concentration, the equivalent weight of the membrane, and membrane pre-treatment was demonstrated by Yeo et al. [62]. In general, the ionic conductivity of the membrane is dependent on its water content, which is related to the above parameters, the conductivity being maximum for a high water content. Membrane conductivity would be optimum for 1000 equivalent-weight membranes in NaOH (or LiOH) electrolyte at approximately 10 % concentration, thin membranes and high temperatures, and also for membranes swollen at high temperatures [62]. Nafion has generally excellent chemical and physical stability in alkaline media. Neutralization of the sulphonic-acid groups increases the glass-transition temperature from 110 to 220 C [62]. However, use might be limited to "low" alkali concentration; Fischer reported that Nation is attacked severely in 50 % KOH above 150 C [47]. No detailed results are available for tests on R.A.I. membranes at high temperature. Perfluorinated cationic ion-exchange membranes could provide a promising replacement for asbestos in high-temperature water electrolyzers. Tests are necessary to confirm their stability in alkaline media at 150 C, and also to determine their resistance to ionic conduction under the same conditions. Membranes with ionexchange properties produced by polymerization in situ of organic compounds on asbestos fibres or cardboards or other porous supports are being investigated. These membranes would be more economical than Nation. No long-term results are available [63,64]. Polybenzimidazoles Polybenzimidazoles (PBI) are complex polymers, based on aromatic, nitrogencontaining rings. Many of the imidazole derivatives are resistant to the most drastic

48

conditions. They are not readily attacked by oxidizing agents and have high melting points and excellent stabilities at elevated temperatures (430 645 C) [65]. Polybenzimidazole fibres, prepared by Celanese Corporation, were tested at 121 C in KOH for 5000 h and showed a weight loss of only 1 % [36]. No changes in fibre diameter or morphology were detectable. Work by Chenevey suggests that this material might be stable up to 100 C [66]. Tensile-strength measurements made under the Noranda/Electrolyser program on two types of PBI cloth after exposure to 30 % KOH at 80 C showed the material to lose 80 % of its strength after one month's exposure and up to 95 % after 15 months; the same PBI cloths showed 10-15 % shrinkage. In view of these results, it is doubtful that PBI fibres could survive the alkaline-water-electrolysis environment at high temperatures.
Other polymers Polyquinoxaline, polyphenylquinoxaline. Polyquinoxaline (P.Q.) and polyphenylquinoxaline (P.P.Q.) are polymers having aromatic, nitrogen-containing rings. These polymers have excellent oxidative and thermal stability. Polymerdecomposition temperatures for some phenyl-substituted polyquinoxalines are as high as 550 C [67]. P.P.Q. showed excellent chemical and dimensional stability in 45 % KOH at 80 C after an extended period of exposure [68]. Polymer H or H-resins. H-resins are thermosetting polyphenylene polymers developed by Hercules Incorporated. The material has very good resistance to severe chemical and thermal environments. Tests indicated good stability in KOH at 190-200 C. Fibres with diameters of 5-10 m were fabricated [69], but work on the development of this resin has now been stopped by Hercules. Electrodes There are no generally valid rules for the shape of the electrodes. Since the internal resistance of an electrolytic cell should be as small as possible in order to keep the expenditure of energy as low as possible, the general attempt is to make the electrode surfaces as large as possible and the electrode spacing as small as possible. Large surfaces are achieved by using flat plate construction or by using large-area sheets or strips. To increase the surface area of the plates, these are in many cases additionally roughened by sandblasting. With particularly expensive electrode materials (e.g., platinum), thin foils, perforated foils or grids or wires are wrapped around plates of insulation material (glass etc.). In achieving the smallest possible distance between the electrodes, it must be ensured that that minimum value is not exceeded or the occurrence of an impermissibly high bath intermixing will again impede the current yield, and thus reduce the efficiency of the cell. The electrode spacing determined during the design of a cell is obtained by the use of fixed, or in some cases adjustable spacers made of glass or cement, so that the electrodes do not lie directly against the diaphragms. The choice of the electrode materials is governed by a number of aspects. The requirements of a good electrode material are: maximum electrical conductance, high corrosion resistance and minimum overvoltage. Selection of the electrode material is also influenced by the proposed electrolyte. In conventional water electrolysis, the cathode is usually mild steel and the anode, which is subject to greater corrosion, is almost exclusively of nickel. Nickel has traditionally been used as the anode material in alkaline water electrolysis. It is highly corrosion-resistant at positive potentials in

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alkaline electrolytes. The oxygen evolution efficiency of nickel is among the highest for elemental metals [70]. Because of the high price of nickel, the anodes are not, as a rule, manufactured of solid nickel, but only provided with an electrolytically deposited nonporous nickel coating. Four main factors must be considered in developing a commercially practical anode for alkaline water electrolysis: electrochemical efficiency, stability, scale-up, and cost. Efficiency is the initial screening criterion in any anode development program. Coupled with the need for high electrocatalytic activity is the requirement of low internal anode resistance. This resistance depends on both the anode materials and structure. Once high efficiency has been demonstrated, the anode must be tested for stability. As a rough goal, physical and chemical degradation should be minimal during several, even as many as ten or more [71], years of operation. The anode must not only be stable at oxygen evolving potentials, but must resist open-circuit corrosion as well. With the recent advent of highly efficient cathode catalysts, the anode corrosion products, however limited, must not foul the cathode surface. In addition to chemical and physical stability, the anode should provide a constant potential after an initial break-in period, rather than the time-dependent potential increase which occurs at nickel anodes [72- 74]. Manufacturing scale-up is a necessary but difficult part of commercial anode development, involving a move from the laboratory to a pilot processing facility. A way must be found to manufacture anodes on the order of 1 m s in area. The process must be under sufficient control to assure constant anode quality. Because of cost constraints, an automated or semi automated manufacturing process is necessary. The maximum practical anode cost depends on the capital cost constraints for the entire electrolysis system. This, in turn, depends not only on competing electrolysis systems, but on non-electrolytic hydrogen production alternatives as well. The permissible cost of any anode improvement will be based on the power savings realized from it and the anticipated anode lifetime. There are several approaches to improving the efficiency of alkaline water electrolysis. Raising the electrolysis temperature, for example, lowers the voltage required to maintain a given cell current density [75]. Improvements in cell design, separator structures, and materials, etc., will also contribute to better cell performance. Whatever advances are made, it will remain necessary to develop electrodes, compatible with the system design and operating conditions, which will give the lowest possible overpotentials. This can be achieved by two methods, which can sometimes be combined for maximum benefit. In the first, catalytically active materials such as NiCo2O4 [76] are applied to the electrode surface. The second method involves greatly increasing the electrode surface area (i.e., its "roughness factor," defined as the ratio of its real surface area to its apparent, or geometric, area), thereby lowering the real current density and the associated activation overpotential. Nickel anode efficiency has been improved by developing high surface-area anode structures. For example, porous, high surface-area anodes have been made by sintering fine nickel powders prepared by nickel tetracarbonyl decomposition. These anodes, although generally less porous, are essentially similar to the positive plaques used in nickel-cadmium batteries. In high-pressure (30 atm) electrolysis at 200 oC the oxygen evolution overpotential, O2, on sintered, porous nickel anodes was about 100 mV lower than on smooth nickel anodes, at current densities of 500-1500 mA/cm2 in 35 % KOH electrolyte [77]. However, sintered, porous nickel anodes were only marginally more efficient than nickel cloth anodes in atmospheric pressure
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electrolysis, over the temperature range 25 o-90 oC [81]. This was attributed to poor inner surface utilization in the porous anode at atmospheric pressure, presumably due to gas blockage. Similar results were obtained in 5N KOH at 25 oC, i.e., 100 mesh nickel screen and sintered, porous nickel anodes produced approximately equal current densities when compared potentiostatically at 1.64 V/DHE [78]. Efficiency gains, as a rule, must be balanced against the additional capital cost incurred [79]. For this reason, work continues to be done to minimize oxygen and hydrogen overpotentials on inexpensive electrode materials such as nickel [80] and nickel alloys [81,82], which are the least expensive electrode materials currently known that can be used as both anodes and cathodes. These materials function most efficiently when fabricated as high surface area electrode forms. The electrodes prepared by applying particulate metal coatings to metal substrates. The use of a paint-like suspension of the metal particles makes it possible to achieve uniform coatings of controlled thickness using a variety of coating techniques. This electrode fabrication method, which appears to be well suited for preparing anodes for alkaline water electrolysis, has two main advantages: (i) the coating technique can be used to add considerable surface roughness to existing electrode structures of many kinds; (ii) the materials and procedures used to prepare the electrodes are relatively inexpensive. Both of these factors are in keeping with the capital cost restraints on commercial alkaline electrolysis equipment. The efficiencies of the coated electrodes and their microstructures can be varied significantly by changing the coating preparation conditions. The interior surfaces of both anode and cathode coatings participate in the electrode reactions to some extent; thus, overpotentials can be reduced by increasing the electrode coating thickness. However, the use of thick anode coatings to improve electrolysis efficiency is of doubtful value on economic grounds, since the overpotential reduction obtained is small. This would be true even under ideal conditions, in which the overpotential reduction for a tenfold increase in coating thickness is given by the Tafel slope, which is only ~35 mV [83]. Anodes with thin, sintered, porous nickel coatings were made by applying nickel powders, in polysilicate-based slurries, to nickel and steel substrates [83]. The coatings were sintered under a reducing atmosphere. The nickel coating morphology depended on the sintering temperature and, to a lesser extent, the sintering time. Decreasing the sintering temperature through the range 980 o-760 o C and the sintering time through the range 30-5 min progressively preserved more of the fine structure in the coatings. A corresponding O2 decrease of about 70 mV was observed in electrolysis at 200 mA/cm2 in 30% KOH electrolyte at 80 oC. Although the interior coating surfaces participated in the oxygen evolution reaction to some extent, the O2 reduction obtained by increasing the coating thickness was small. In a subsequent study [84], the porous nickel-coated mild steel anodes were operated for 1200h at 100 mA/cm2 in 30% KOH at 80oC. After an initial rise, the anode potential was essentially constant. Nickel-iron alloy formation in the steel surface region, during the high temperature sintering treatment used to bond the coating to the substrate, greatly increased its corrosion resistance. Nickel coatings made by slurry coating and sintering nickel powder have also been applied to foamed nickel anode supports [85]. The resulting anodes were operated at 500 mA/cm2 in 40% KOH electrolyte at 90oC. The voltages of cells with porous nickel/foamed nickel anodes and cathodes were about 50-100 mV lower than those of cells with uncoated foamed nickel electrodes.

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Cells equipped with the coated electrodes maintained a stable 1.68V operating voltage at 200 mA/cm2 in 100h electrolyses at 118oC. The results cited above show that coatings made by sintering fine nickel powder prepared by Ni carbonyl decomposition reduce oxygen overpotential. Avoiding the high temperatures used for nickel sintering, which produce a concomitant loss in surface area, would appear to offer the advantage of maximized anode surface area. However, Balajka found that TFE-bonded nickel powder applied to 100 mesh nickel screen was ineffective [86]. Such anodes were actually about 60 mV less efficient than similar screens with electroplated nickel coatings, at a current density of 370 mA/cm2 in 30% KOH electrolyte at 80 oC. This poor performance was ascribed to possible oxidation of the metal surface during electrode preparation. Nickel whisker anodes [87,88] were made from polycrystalline nickel whiskers grown by chemical vapour deposition of Ni(CO)4 gas in an electromagnetic field. Whiskers, with diameters from 0.1 to 50 m and lengths from one-tenth to several centimetres, were sintered at 800-1000 oC into continuous, fibrous networks on 200 mesh nickel screen. The resulting anodes were up to 90% porous, with specific surface areas of up to 5 103 cm2/g. The anodes were tested in 30% KOH electrolyte, at current densities from 100 to 1000 mA/cm2, based on apparent anode surface area. Oxygen evolution overpotentials were about 100 mV lower on whisker anodes than on multilayer, 200 mesh nickel screens. There was no loss of structural integrity during 48h of electrolysis at 1000 mA/cm2. Although the electrode structure is less suitable for hydrogen evolution than for oxygen evolution, the cathode overpotential reduction with increased coating thickness is larger. This is not due to the more effective utilization of the electrode coating interior for hydrogen evolution than for oxygen evolution, but is rather a consequence of the difference in Tafel slopes for the two processes. The optimum electrode coating microstructure, for any given cell and set of operating conditions, is that which gives adequate strength and stability while maintaining the highest possible surface roughness factor. The different coating strengths are necessary, depending on whether the coated electrodes are used as anodes or cathodes. The efficiency improvements which can result from choosing proper sintering conditions are large enough to be significant. In addition, sintering no more than necessary for adequate mechanical integrity of the coating minimizes sintering costs. The use of steel substrates with porous coatings as anodes in alkaline electrolysis raises questions regarding their durability, since unprotected mild steel corrodes rapidly under anodic service. None of the electrodes used showed evidence of corrosive failure in electrolyses. Efforts to improve the efficiencies of nickel anodes have focused on raising their effective surface areas [83,89] as well as applying electrocatalysts to their surfaces [90]. Raney nickel is made by alloying nickel with metals such as aluminium or zinc. When the Raney alloy is leached in alkaline electrolyte, a high surface-area structure with high electrochemical activity is produced. Several approaches to making Raney nickel anodes for alkaline water electrolysis have been reported. Raney Ni-Zn alloy was prepared by electrodeposition from chloride electrolyte [48]. The electrodeposition conditions affected both the composition and structure of the alloy. A maximum BET specific surface area, greater than 25 m2/g, for the leached anodes were obtained at a deposition potential of 1.07 V/SCE. Correspondingly, electrolysis cells containing Raney nickel anodes and cathodes had minimum voltages using alloy

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electroplated at -1.07 V/SCE. Analysis of the experimental data indicated that the improved performance of Raney nickel-coated anodes was due solely to greater anode surface area [91]. An electrolysis cell containing Raney nickel-activated iron anodes and cathodes was stable for 3000 h at a current density of 200 mA/cm2 and a temperature of 110 oC. Electrodeposition of Ni-Zn alloy onto nickel or stainless mesh has also been used to make Raney-type porous electrodes by plating for as much as 24 h [92]. These electrodes differed from the usual sintered powder porous anodes in their pore structure, which was channel-like and full of very fine hairline cracks. Porosities ranged from 65% to 75%, average pore sizes from 1 to 3 m. Electrochemical measurements in 6N KOH showed that the electrodeposited porous anodes were generally inferior to sintered ones. A plasma-sprayed Ni-A1 anode coating produced an initial overpotential reduction of 200 mV in electrolyses at 160 o and 200 oC [93]. After 100h, the O2 improvement was still 180 mV at 160 oC whereas at 200 oC the improvement decreased to 150 mV after 350 h. In contrast, Raney nickel prepared by plasma spraying Ni-A1 alloy particles was found to be a poor oxygen evolution catalyst in another study [94]. This was attributed to rapid oxidation of the anode surface. The Raney nickel structure was found, however, to be useful as a support for other catalysts. Raney nickel deposited on foamed nickel anode supports behaved similarly to sintered, porous nickel coatings on foamed nickel, i.e., cell voltages were 50-100 mV lower when Raney nickel-coated anodes and cathodes were used instead of uncoated foamed nickel electrodes85. In 40% KOH electrolyte at 118 oC Raney nickel was initially superior to sintered, porous nickel, but the advantage declined to only 20 mV within 100 h. Various Raney alloy anodes tested at 90 oC were about 60 mV more efficient than conventional, low surface-area nickel anodes [95]. At a current density of 100 mA/cm2, O2 was 240 mV for Raney nickel, 240 mV for Raney nickel-cobalt (30 atom percent (a/o) Co), and 230-240 mV for Raney cobalt. These values compared with 300 mV for steel-blasted nickel and 280 mV for electrodeposited nickel. Several methods of doping Raney nickel anodes with lithium were studied by Martin et al. [96]. In almost all cases, anode activity declined greatly during 24 h of electrolysis at 80 oC at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2. Best results were obtained by pre-oxidizing the anodes in H2O2 + LiOH or thermally in air. In the same study, better results were obtained when Raney nickel anodes were impregnated with cobalt oxide. Overpotential reductions of more than 130 mV were measured after 24h of electrolysis at 80 oC at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2. Impregnating Raney nickel with mixed cobalt-nickel oxides was no more effective than using cobalt alone. Nickel anode degradation during high temperature service has been investigated, primarily in conjunction with the French high-temperature electrolysis programs. Giles [97] analyzed the physical and electrical characteristics of rollcompacted, sintered, porous nickel anodes before and after pilot plant operation at CEM. Electrolysis was carried out at 1000 mA/cm2, in 35% KOH at 200oC under 30 atm pressure. During 250 h of electrolysis, anode porosity decreased from about 45% to about 20% as corrosion products accumulated within the anode. As the finely porous corrosion products filled the larger anode pores, the mean pore diameter fell from 1.9 to 0.3 m after 23 h and to 0.1 m after 83 h. X-ray diffraction showed both Ni(OH)2 and NiO, but no +3 nickel species, in the corrosion product. Anode tensile strength dropped from 50 to 20 N/mm2 after 83 h of electrolysis. The electrical

53

resistivity increased from about 27 10-6 cm to about 46 10-6 cm during the same period. Despite the slowing of the nickel corrosion rate with time because of the partly protective nature of the corrosion layer, Giles concluded that using sintered, porous nickel anodes in high-pressure, high-temperature service was questionable. A joint GDF/EDF study [98] addressed nickel corrosion in the temperature range 130o- 180 oC. While positive potentials were not imposed on the nickel specimens, the corrosion tests were carried out in an oxygenated environment in 40% KOH. Specimens of Ni 200 and Ni 201 industrial castings, a powder metallurgy compact (Ni 270), and high-purity, zone-refined nickel were studied. In the oxygenated electrolyte, the porous corrosion products were NiO and Ni(OH)2 at 130 o C while only NiO was observed at 180 oC. Corrosion rates at 180 oC were 10-15 m/yr for high-purity nickel, and 30-45 m/yr for Ni 200, 201, and 270. Restricting the sulphur content of the nickel was found to retard corrosion. Under anodic polarization, the Ni+2 species can be converted to Ni+3. Electrochemical and ellipsometric studies [74] demonstrated that trivalent nickel was the desired species for efficient oxygen evolution. Thus, Ni(OH)2 may be regarded as the electrocatalyst precursor. Attempts to catalyze nickel anodes with Ni(OH)2 have benefited from the extensive work on nickel electrodes for alkaline storage batteries [99]. Sintered, porous nickel anodes impregnated with Ni(OH)2, essentially nickel battery positives, were considerably more efficient for oxygen evolution than similar unimpregnated anodes [80]. Electrolysis was carried out at 90oC in 34% KOH electrolyte. At a current density of 400 mA/cm2, O2 was only about 100 mV on the impregnated anodes, while the unimpregnated anodes were, as discussed earlier, no more efficient than nickel cloth anodes. This enhanced activity was attributed to higher superficial surface area rather than improved utilization of the inner anode surfaces. Anodes impregnated with 1.91g of Ni(OH)2 per cm3 of void volume, a characteristic nickel battery positive loading, showed rapid disintegration under continuous charging at 80oC This was presumably due to high internal stresses. Anodes with a lower Ni(OH)2, loading of 1.15g/cm3 of void volume were dimensionally and structurally stable during more than 100 days of operation at 400 mA/cm2. In a study of nickel battery positive plates, the oxygen evolution reaction was observed at an earlier stage of charging when the plates were impregnated electrochemically rather than chemically [100]. Water electrolysis anodes in sheet and woven screen form, with sintered, porous nickel coatings, were electrochemically impregnated with Ni(OH)2 [101]. In a one-step impregnation process, the amount of Ni(OH)2 precipitated varied linearly with the charge passed. This allowed the catalyst loading to be controlled accurately. On Ni(OH)2-impregnated anodes, O2 at 200 mA/cm2 was 45-60 mV lower than on similar un-catalyzed anodes, in 30% KOH electrolyte at 80oC. Optimum Ni(OH)2 loadings were about 1-4 mg/cm2 of apparent anode surface area. At higher loadings, overpotentials rose as the outer pores of the nickel coatings became plugged with Ni(OH)2, resulting in a loss of effective anode surface area. Lithiated NiO electrocatalyst was prepared by vacuum decomposition of a mixed slurry of Ni(OH)2 and LiOH [102,103]. Lithium, present at 1 a/o in the finished catalyst, greatly reduced the electronic resistivity from the un-doped value (>108 cm) to 100 cm. The BET specific surface area of the catalyst was 100 m2/g. Anodes were made by mixing the catalyst with TFE binder and sintering onto 100 mesh nickel screen. In 5N KOH electrolyte at 60 oC the catalyzed anodes were about

54

55 mV more efficient than un-catalyzed nickel screens and were comparable to NiCo2O4-catalyzed anodes. More fundamental studies have investigated the oxygen evolution reaction mechanism [104] and the nature of the surface on which the reaction takes place [105]. The oxygen evolution characteristics of the mixed oxide spinel, NiCo2O4, have been reported extensively, most notably by Tseung and co-workers [76,102,106- 109]. In strongly alkaline electrolytes at high positive potentials, i.e., conditions typical of commercial electrolysis, oxygen evolution proceeds by decomposition of species with tetravalent cations [108,109]. NiCo2O4 has been made in several ways. Freeze-drying mixed Ni and Co nitrates, followed by vacuum decomposition at 250 oC and a final heat-treatment for 10h at 400 oC in air, is preferred. The resulting catalyst has a high specific surface area (70 m2/g by BET) and a moderate electrical resistivity (10 cm) [102]. Anodes made with freeze-dried NiCo2O4 were more efficient than similar anodes catalyzed with NiCo2O4 made by mixed nitrate co-precipitation [107]. It was proposed that the freeze-dried product was more homogeneous, i.e., there was less separation of Ni and Co oxides. NiCo2O4 has also been made by direct thermal decomposition of the mixed nitrate salts on anode substrates102. However, the anodes were less efficient than those made with freeze-dried NiCo2O4. Highest anode efficiencies have been obtained with the freeze-dried NiCo2O4 incorporated into a TFE-bonded coating [102]. Optimum efficiency was obtained using 15%-30% TFE binder. For example, at 60 oC in 5N KOH, a catalyst loading of 13 mg/cm2 produced a current density of 1000 mA/cm2 at 1.6 V/DHE. However, oxygen bubbles were observed to cling to the hydrophobic anode surface. Applying a thin, hydrophilic nickel cobalt oxide layer to the anode surface improved bubble release. This reduced the anode potential by about 20 mV at 1000 mA/cm2 in 5N KOH at 25oC. In another study [86], TFE-bonded NiCo2O4 anodes were about 150 mV more efficient than nickel-plated nickel screen when operated at a current density of 370 mA/cm2 in 30% KOH electrolyte at 80oC. Doping NiCo2O4 with varying amounts of Sr and La was effective in reducing O2 [96]. Best results were obtained when 0.5 atoms of (2/3 Sr + 1/3 La) per atom of cobalt were added. The resulting material, with nominal composition NiCo2Sr0.66La00.33O5.17, produced 300 mV overpotential at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2. NiCo2O4-catalyzed anodes have shown high oxygen evolution efficiency in several laboratories. Long-term anode stability, however, is open to some question. At a current density of 330 mA/cm2, an overpotential decrease of 150 mV relative to nickel anodes was reported [72]. However, poor stability was noted at temperatures above 100oC and current densities greater than 200 mA/cm2. In contrast, thermally decomposed NiCo2O4 anodes were stable for 2000 h of electrolysis at 1000 mA/cm2 at a temperature of 120oC. In another study, NiCo2O4 anodes were stable for over 1000h of electrolysis at 1000 mA/cm2, at temperatures from 120oC to 200oC [26]. However, the catalyst was very sensitive to corrosion at open circuit. In tests of about 150 days duration at low current density (75 mA/cm2) and temperature (70 oC in 28% KOH, a TFE-bonded, freeze-dried NiCo2O4 anode was initially about 60 mV more efficient than a nickel-plated steel anode [73]. After 150 days, due to a lower O2 increase with time, the NiCo2O4 anode advantage was over
1 1

55

100 mV. Similarly, in 18 days of electrolysis at 330 mA/cm2, O2 was about 100 mV lower on NiCo2O4 anodes than on un-catalyzed Ni screen in 30% KOH at 90 oC [27]. The spinel Co3O4 has shown promising efficiency and long-term performance. Thermally decomposed Co3O4 was deposited on electroformed nickel plates with conic holes [110] and was tested in atmospheric pressure electrolysis at 120oC. After 6000h of electrolysis at 1000 mA/cm2 in 40% NaOH electrolyte, the anode potential was about 0.59V vs. Hg/HgO reference (containing the bulk electrolyte composition). After an initial break-in period, the rate of O2 rise with time was only 4 mV/1000h. Co3O4 anodes containing 0, 4, 7, and 10 a/o Li dopant were prepared by freeze drying and vacuum decomposing the mixed Li and Co nitrates [106,111]. This was followed by heat-treatment at 600 oC for 10h to produce the Li-doped spinels. The electrical resistivities of the catalyst powders varied greatly with the extent of Li doping, from 104 cm at 0% Li to 10 cm at 4% Li, and 1 cm at both 7% and 10% Li. TFE-bonded anodes were made using 10/3 weight ratios of the catalyst powders to TFE. These anodes were operated at 1000 mA/cm2 in 5M KOH at 70 oC. The anode potential dropped markedly with increasing Li doping, i.e., 1.69V with no Li dopant, and 1.56, 1.535, and 1.52V, respectively, at 4, 7, and 10 a/o doping. The enhanced 02 evolution activity with increased Li doping was attributed to the increased fraction of Co +3 ions which could form if all the Li entered tetrahedral lattice sites [111]. An electrolysis cell equipped with a TFE-bonded, 10% Li-doped Co3O4 anode was operated for about 6000h at 1000 mA/cm2 [106]. The cell contained 45% KOH electrolyte at 85 oC. An anode half-cell measurement after approximately 5600 h indicated an O2 increase of about 50 mV during operation. The Li content of the anode was unchanged. A TFE-bonded, Li-doped Co3O4 coating was applied to a porous nickel anode substrate [77]. In 30% KOH electrolyte at 70 oC at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2, O2 was 300 mV at the beginning of electrolysis and 296 mV after 1006 h of operation. A variety of AB2O4 spinel compounds (B = A1, Cr, Mn, Fe, or Co) were used to prepare TFE-bonded anodes [60]. The anodes were tested in 30% KOH at 80 oC. At a current density of 1000 mA/cm2, the spinel anode overvoltages were 30-70 mV lower than the overvoltage of un-catalyzed nickel. The mixed oxides NiLa2O4, NiPr2O4, and NiNd2O4 were prepared by thermal decomposition on platinum supports [112]. In potentiostatic experiments conducted in 30% KOH at 50oC the three catalysts showed similar current vs. potential characteristics. A low Tafel slope (approximately 40 mV/decade) was observed at current densities of up to 100 mA/cm2. At higher current densities, the Tafel slope was about 120 mV/decade. The anode potentials were approximately 1.6 V/RHE at 1000 mA/cm2. The oxygen evolution overpotentials on the mixed oxide anodes were observed to be essentially stable for several hundred hours, at current densities as high as 1000 mA/cm2. The NiLa2O4 anode electrocatalyst has been doped with Li, Mg, and Fe, replacing some of the Ni, and with partial substitution of sulphur for oxygen [78]. The surface properties of the Li-doped materials were claimed to be slightly superior to un-doped NiLa2O4. However, Li doping produced an increase in bulk catalyst resistivity as x in Ni1-xLixLa2O4 was increased from 0 to 0.24, in contrast to the lower resistivity produced by doping Co3O4 with Li, as discussed in the preceding section. The net effect on O2 was negligible. Mg doping also increased the electrical resistivity of the catalyst. Similarly, high levels of Fe doping, e.g., x = 0.06 in Ni1-

56

increased electrical resistivity. Lower Fe doping (e.g., x = 0.03) produced a resistivity decrease, but failed to improve O2 for the NiLa2O4 anode. Cobalt substitution, while effective in reducing O2, produced a non-stoichiometric oxide of nominal formula Ni0.8Co0.2LaO3. Its anodic polarization was about 25 mV lower than that of NiLa2O4 in 30% KOH electrolyte at 85 oC over the current-density range 100- 1000 mA/cm2. At the current density of 500 mA/cm2, the Co containing anode also showed superior time behaviour during 300h of electrolysis, producing a ~100 mV lower anode potential during the last 150h. However, raising the electrolysis temperature to 110 oC produced a significant deterioration in performance, so that the Co containing anode became inferior to NiLa2O4. Treatment of NiLa2O4 with H2S to incorporate sulphur into the catalyst worsened the anode polarization behaviour. This was attributed to the higher resistance of the sulphur containing anodes. Perovskite anode catalysts of the La1-xSrxCoO3 type, and substitutional variants, have been studied more extensively than any other mixed oxides, with the possible exception of NiCo2O4. Their high activities for oxygen evolution are similar to that of NiCo2O4, with the relative superiority of the two types of catalyst still open to question. For example, in 30% KOH electrolyte at 145 oC, La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 was about 120 mV superior to NiCo2O4 at 1000 mA/cm2 [26]. However, under similar conditions (120 oC 1000 mA/cm2), cells with La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 anodes showed 0.1V higher voltages than similar cells with NiCo2O4 anodes [113]. A mixed La-Sr-Co oxide of unspecified composition, deposited on a Raney nickel substrate, was 180 mV more efficient than an un-activated nickel mesh anode at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2 in 40% KOH electrolyte at 160 oC [94]. The anode was stable for more than 1000h. It is generally agreed that the La-Sr-Co perovskite composition has a significant effect on oxygen evolution overpotential. The relationship between O2 and x in the formula La1-xSrxCoO3is not completely clear, but an overall trend toward higher catalytic activity in the compositional midrange has been determined. When 5-10 mg/cm2 La1-xSrxCoO3 coatings were applied by spray pyrolysis, a broad O2 minimum, centred at about x = 0.5, was observed at a current density of 10 mA/cm2 [114]. At a current density of 500 mA/cm2, optimum overpotentials of about 330 mV were measured over the approximate range 0.5 < x < 1.0. These results were obtained in 6N KOH electrolyte at 80 oC. In a later study with more data points reported, the variation in O2 with x was refined [96]. At current densities of 100, 500, and 1000 mA/cm2, an overpotential minimum was found at about x = 0.75, while x 0.15 produced an overpotential maximum. At low current densities in 45% KOH at 25 oC La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 and La0.8Sr0.2CoO3 had approximately equal potentials, while both were superior to LaCoO3 [115]. The variation in electrical resistivity, , vs. x for several perovskite families La1-xSrxCoO3 is roughly similar to that described above for O2 vs. x [116]. This suggests that electrical resistivity is an important factor in the efficiency of perovskite anode catalysts. For most of the lanthanides studied, was 0.1-10 cm at x = 0, decreasing to about 10-3.5 cm at x = 0.5. The minimum composition interval for La containing perovskites was quite broad, from about x = 0.2 through x = 0.6, the highest value investigated. The decrease as Sr was substituted for La has been attributed to more Co+3/Co+4 couples in the doped perovskite [115]. La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 coatings have been prepared by a number of methods. Spray pyrolysis was used to deposit 7 mA/cm2 coatings in a study of the effects of final calcination temperature [93]. Best results were obtained by calcining the coatings at 600 o 700 oC. In 8N KOH at 80 oC was about 380 mV at 1000 mA/cm2. Raising the

xFe2x/3La2O4,

57

coating loading to about 15 mA/cm2 further reduced O2 to about 340 mV at 1000 mA/cm2. Thermally decomposed coatings, containing 1.2 mA/cm2 La0.5Sr0.5CoO3, were also studied [95]. At 90 oC these coatings gave O2 approximately 250 mV at 100 mA/cm2 and 330 mV at 1000 mA/cm2. From O2 at 90 oC and the rate of overpotential change with temperature, d O2 /dT, an overpotential of 220 mV was estimated for 1000 mA/cm2 electrolysis at 160 oC. TFE-bonded anodes (36% TFE, 14 mA/cm2 loading) were nearly as active as anodes without TFE at low current densities, in 6N KOH at 80 oC [114]. However, O2 increased rapidly at current densities above 10 mA/cm2 due to resistance losses between catalyst particles in the coating. Changes in TFE content and preparation method did not overcome this problem. The effects of electrolysis temperature on the activity of La1-xSrxCoO3 are unclear. It is generally agreed that, at temperatures up to 160 oC an increase in electrolysis temperature produces an increase in catalyst activity. Because d O2 /dT for the perovskite catalysts is greater than for other anodes (e.g., Raney nickel, unactivated nickel) their relative improvement is greater with increasing temperature [95]. Continuous improvement up to 200 oC was reported for electrolysis in 36% KOH at 22 atm pressure [114]. The O2 improvement at 1000 mA/cm2 relative to unactivated nickel anodes was 260 mV at 160 oC and 280 mV at 200 oC. However, a subsequent publication from the same laboratories [93] reported a decrease in activity between 160 oC and 200 oC at 1000 mA/cm2 in 8N KOH. The experimental evidence indicated that this was an intrinsic property of the catalyst. The stability of La-Sr-Co oxides under anodic polarization has been good. In 36% KOH at 160 oC La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 was stable during 500h of electrolysis at 1000 mA/cm2, producing a 150 mV O2 reduction [93]. A series of La1-xSrxCoO3 compounds, prepared by freeze drying, were corrosion resistant at 220 oC in 75% KOH electrolyte [115]. No activity loss was observed during 1000h of continuous operation, and 2600h of operation with periodic interruption, at 1000 mA/cm2 in the temperature range 120 o -200 oC [26]. However, La-Sr-Co oxides were reported to be very sensitive to passive corrosion. Several anode electrocatalysts have been made by substituting nickel or iron for some or all of the cobalt in La1-xSrxCoO3. The oxygen evolution activity in the family of compounds La1-xSrxFe1-yCoyO3 increased with increasing x and y [117]. SrCoO3 itself could not be synthesized as a perovskite. As a result, the most efficient anode - catalyst prepared was La0.2Sr0.8Fe0.2Co0.8O3. In 1M KOH electrolyte at 25 oC that catalyst produced a steady potential of 0.90V vs. Hg/HgO at 100 mA/cm2, after an initial potential rise during the first 40h of electrolysis. Nickel substitution for cobalt, in the series of compounds La1-xSrxFe1-yCoyO3, has also been investigated [93]. Coatings with 10 mA/cm2 of the perovskites were prepared by spray pyrolysis and tested in 8N KOH at 80 oC. At a current density of 1000 mA/cm2, a minimum O2 of about 310 mV was obtained at about y = 0.6. The compound LaNi0.2Co0.8O3 was plasma sprayed to produce 8 mA/cm2 coatings [95]. At 90 oC O2 was 270 mV at 100 mA/cm2 and 330 mV at 1000 mA/cm2. The 90 oC data and d O2/dT were used to estimate an overpotential of 240 mV at 160 oC at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2. An anode catalyzed with La0.2Sr0.3Ni0.4Co0.6O3 produced an initial 140 mV overpotential reduction at 200 oC but lost activity after 1h of electrolysis [96]. Surface analysis showed an increase in the Sr/La ratio. The perovskite electrocatalyst LaNiO3 was prepared by co-precipitation of La and Ni nitrates, followed by an oxidizing heat-treatment at 800 oC [118]. Anodes were made by pressing the LaNiO3 powder into pellets and sintering at 750 oC. In

58

approximately 1M hydroxide electrolytes at 25 oC the rate of O2 evolution on LaNiO3 was about 105 times faster than on Pt and about 102 times faster than on NiCo2O4. At a current density of 100 mA/cm2, O2 was about 310 mV. The Tafel slope was 40 mV/decade. The LaNiO3 surface was non-stoichiometric, with almost all the nickel in the +2 state. It was proposed that the high activity of LaNiO3 was due to its high surface carrier density (approximately 1020/cm3). Bockris and co-workers suggested a course for future perovskite electrocatalyst development [119]. Their XPS examinations indicated a nonstoichiometric surface, in which charge is mainly compensated by oxygen vacancies. Because of the strong affinity of oxygen-deficient surfaces toward oxygen in the form of OH, an increase in electrocatalytic activity would be expected with increasing Mz-OH bond strength, where Mz is a surface transition metal ion. As a result, it was proposed that perovskite electrocatalyst research should focus on finding a bonding sequence which produces low intermediate radical coverage. In an experimental study covering 18 perovskite compositions, carried out by the same group, the electrochemical desorption of OH was found to be rate determining in every case [120]. Later the study of perovskite electrocatalysis was extended [121]. It was shown that reaction rates increase with decreases of magnetic moment, stability of the perovskite lattice, and enthalpy of transition metal hydroxide formation, and with increased number of d-electrons in the transition metal ion. The latter correlation is consistent with the earlier proposal that rate-determining steps involve OH desorption. Thin films of ABO2 metal oxides were prepared by RF-sputtering the parent alloys under various O2 partial pressures, followed by annealing in air [122]. Metal A was Pt or Pd, and B was Co, Rh, or Cr. The oxides exhibited the delafossite structure, i.e., for PtCoO2, alternating layers of Pt linearly coordinated with two oxygen atoms and Co octahedrally coordinated with oxygen. Oxygen evolution activity depended strongly on the transition metal, in the order Co > Rh > Cr, but was nearly independent of the noble metal. It was suggested that this was due to coverage of the noble metal with a poorly conducting oxide. The Co containing oxides produced oxygen evolution potentials more than 100 mV lower than a Pt anode in 1M NaOH at 23 oC. In electrolysis at 120 oC NiCoO2 anodes prepared by thermal decomposition showed oxygen evolution potentials similar to those of NiCo2O4 and La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 anodes at a current density of 1000 mA/cm2 [113,114]. At lower current densities (100-200 mA/cm2), NiCoO2 was superior to the other anode materials. It has been known for some time that nickel-iron alloys show relatively low oxygen evolution overpotentials [123,124]. However, the variation of O2 with alloy composition was not clearly defined, because results vary depending on alloy history and pre-treatment. Later Ni-Fe alloy anodes have been re-examined. Gras and Pernot [125] studied the anodic behaviour of alloys containing 9, 28, and 50 w/o nickel, in comparison to two forms of nickel. They found that the 9% Ni alloy was unstable, in agreement with earlier results [124], while the catalytic activity of the 28% nickel alloy was lower than that of pure nickel. The corrosion- resistant 50% nickel alloy was about 70 mV more efficient than nickel after 100- 200h of electrolysis, in the current-density range 100-1000 mA/cm2. Anode composition vs. depth profiling, by secondary ion mass spectrometry, showed that the surface was enriched with potassium and oxygen after electrolysis. It was proposed that in situ formation of a NixFeyOzKt complex oxide increased the catalytic activity of the anode.

59

In another study [126], high surface-area nickel-iron alloy anodes were prepared with a 37% nickel powder prepared by co-decomposition of nickel and iron carbonyl. The powder was applied to anode substrates as a sintered, porous coating. In 30% KOH electrolyte at current densities up to mA/cm2, the alloy anodes evolved oxygen as efficiently as similar anodes prepared with pure nickel powder. Non-noble metal catalysts were made by plasma spraying coatings of >90 w/o Ni and/or Co plus <10 w/o stainless steel onto preheated iron or nickel-coated iron substrates [127]. Anode overpotentials were 60-80 mV lower than on smooth nickel, at 1000 mA/cm2, in 29% KOH at 70 oC. At current densities <500 mA/cm2, there was no variation of anode potential vs. time for 1000h of operation. At 1000 mA/cm2, the anode potential increased from 1.54 to 1.60 V/NHE during the first 300h of electrolysis, and then remained constant up to 1000h. Ni-W alloys and the intermetallic compounds Ni3Ti, NiTi, and NiTi2 were investigated by Lu and Srinivasan [128]. Titanium was alloyed with nickel to increase the number of d-band vacancies and, thus, electrocatalytic activity [129]. However, as discussed in the following section, such a correlation was not found at the oxidecovered electrodes. Best results were obtained with Ni3Ti, for which O2 was 20 mV lower than on nickel, in 30% KOH electrolyte at 80 oC. While the last-cited study found no correlation of oxygen evolution activity to electronic properties, Osaka et al. [130] did find a correlation to magnetic properties, which strongly connected, in turn, to electronic properties, for cobalt borides and composite cobalt borides. For cobalt borides, the O2 evolution activity depended significantly on the Co/B ratio, as well as the sintering temperature used to make the catalyst. Optimum preparations produced higher electrocatalytic activity than nickel or cobalt. These best conditions included a 3:1 ratio of cobalt to boron, and a sintering temperature of 400o -500 oC at which the saturation magnetization showed a maximum. Among the composite cobalt borides, cobalt iron boride (Co:Fe:B = 1:2:1) sintered at 50 oC had the greatest catalytic activity. At 100 mA/cm2 in 6M KOH at 25 o C cobalt iron boride produced a potential of about 0.65V vs. Hg/HgO. It was found that those catalysts which formed thicker and more-stable oxide films in higher oxidation states had higher activities for oxygen evolution. The latter work established that nickel oxyhydroxide is the preferred electrocatalytic species for oxygen evolution. Nickel oxyhydroxide forms when nickel hydroxide is electrochemically oxidized to the +3 valence state. Appleby and coworkers demonstrated that oxygen evolution overpotentials were considerably lower on porous sintered nickel when it was impregnated with nickel hydroxide80. It is likely that nickel hydroxide impregnation produces more of the preferred electrocatalyst nickel oxyhydroxide than is generated anodically on a metallic nickel surface. Available experimental evidence strongly indicates that individual precious metals and their oxides have little or no superiority to nickel in their electrocatalytic activity [76,80,85,131]. The exception is ruthenium oxide, which is a highly efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalyst [95] but is unstable in alkaline electrolyte. Oxygen evolution on smooth platinum and iridium electrodes was examined by Appleby et at. [80] and compared to O2 evolution on nickel. In 25% KOH electrolyte, Ir was markedly superior to Pt in the temperature range 25o- 90 oC. In 34% KOH, the relative superiority of Ir was somewhat less. Tafel slopes were about 2RT/3F, with evidence of a change to a higher slope at current densities above 10 mA/cm2. However, neither Ir nor Pt was as effective an electrocatalyst as pure nickel. Another study [76], in which Ni and Pt screen anodes were compared, produced the same result.

60

Pt, Pd, Rh, and Ni coatings were electrodeposited onto foamed Ni anode supports and tested at a current density of 200 mA/cm2, in 30% KOH electrolyte at 90 o C [85]. The rhodium coating performed best, providing a cell voltage of 1.72V, followed by Pd (1.74V), Ni (1.75V), and Pt (1.80V). Ir and Ru alloys with 25, 50, and 75 a/o nickel were investigated as oxygen evolution anodes in 30% KOH electrolyte at 80 oC [128]. The Ni-Ru alloys with 50 and 75 a/o Ru dissolved anodically. The maximum overpotential reduction was produced by the 50Ni-50Ir alloy, which was 40 mV more efficient than pure nickel at a current density of 20 mA/cm2. The electrokinetic parameters for the alloys were similar to those for nickel. Correspondingly, cyclic voltammetry showed that the surface of the alloy anodes was predominantly composed of nickel oxide species. Because of coverage by oxide films, there was no dependence of electrocatalytic activity on alloy electronic structure. Outstanding oxygen evolution activity was obtained at pyrochlore structure oxide anodes [132]. The catalysts are described by the general formula A2[B2-xAx]O7o y, where A = Pb or Bi, B = Ru or Ir, O < x < 1, and O < y < 0.5. In 3M KOH at 75 C 4+ a typical Pb2[Ru2-xPbx ]O6.5 catalyst evolved oxygen at an overpotential of about 120 mV at a current density of 100 mA/cm2. In comparative potential sweep experiments, pyrochlore anodes were >100 mV more efficient than Pt black, RuO2, or NiCo2O4. A supported Pb2[Rul.49Pb00.514+]O6.5 s anode was life-tested at a current density of 200 mA/cm2 for more than 1000h, in 3M KOH at 75 oC. After the first 200h, the rise in anode potential vs. time slowed noticeably, reaching a potential of about 1.5 V/RHE, about 50 mV higher than the potential measured at the beginning of the test. X-ray diffraction of the used anode did not reveal chemical degradation. Attempts to maximize anode efficiency using high (62 mg/cm2) catalyst loading TFEbonded structures produced stability problems as the catalyst layer separated from the support during 504h of operation. A number of approaches have been taken to improve the oxygen evolution anode. To date, results using metal oxide electrocatalysis have generally shown more promise than those obtained with modifications of the nickel electrode structure. Catalysts such as NiCo2O4, Li-doped Co3O4, and the La-Sr-Co oxides have been tested extensively. Further research of this type may lead to important catalyst modifications or the development of entirely new catalyst systems. With the exception of the relatively inexpensive ruthenium, as used in the pyrochlore oxides, it is unlikely that practical oxygen evolution anodes will be based on precious metals. Overpotential reductions obtained with Pt, Ir, or Pd, for example, has been modest. In addition, the promising results obtained with far cheaper materials mitigates on economic grounds against the use of precious metals.
Electrolyte The electrolytes are defined as the group of electrical second-class conductors (ionic conductors). They are mostly found in liquid form, but also as solids [133- 136]. A differentiation is made between strong and weak electrolytes, depending on their ability to dissociate in liquids more or less completely into ions. Those belonging to the first category, which at the same time also form the group of electrolytes with high electrical conductivity, include the mineral acids (H2SO4, HCl etc.) which are also strong in the chemical sense, together with the strong bases (NaOH, KOH, etc.), which are so important for water electrolysis. The weak electrolytes have no significance in the field of electrolysis because of their low electrical conductivity.
1 1

61

In the conventional methods of water electrolysis, dilute caustic potash solution (KOH) and dilute caustic soda solution (NaOH) are primarily used as electrolytes at operating temperatures between 60 and 80 C. They have the advantage that steel and nickel can be used as the cheapest electrode materials, and also as the constructional materials for the cell including the cell container, without any manifestation of corrosion. In addition, for some of the modified water electrolysis cells at present in development, solid electrolytes of zirconium oxide with admixtures of yttrium oxide or ytterbium oxide as well as various organic and inorganic synthetics are being investigated for their suitability as electrolytes [134-136].
3

4.2 Polymer electrolyzers

4.2.1 The cell
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis technology is frequently presented in the literature as a very interesting alternative to the more conventional alkaline water electrolysis. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis systems offers several advantages over traditional technologies including greater energy efficiency, higher production rates, and more compact design [137]. This method of hydrogen production is envisioned in a future hydrogen society whereby hydrogen as the energy carrier is incorporated in an idealized energy cycle. In this cycle, electricity from renewable energy sources is used to electrochemically split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The only input to this cycle is the clean renewable energy and the only output is electric power. A basic schematic of a PEM water electrolysis cell is shown in Figure 4-6. The PEM water electrolysis cell consists primarily of a PEM on which the anode and cathode are bonded. These electrodes are normally a composite of electrocatalytic particles and electrolyte polymer. Cells that use a solid-polymer electrolyte are usually constructed on the filter press-type design. They do not require electrolyte circulation because the electrolyte is immobilized in the form of an ion-exchange resin. The electrodes are either embedded in the surface of the resin sheets or pressed closely against the two opposing faces of the sheet of resin material. A ribbed or corrugated solid metal separator plate is interposed between cells, providing electric continuity between one cell and the next while separating the hydrogen from the oxygen in adjacent cells. This type of cell is usually cooled by circulating water through the cavity between the metal separator and the electrode plate. Hydrogen or oxygen evolved into this cavity is swept out by the coolant stream and is separated from the water outside the cell. The advantages of the solid-polymer-type cell are that (a) the electrolyte membrane or diaphragm can be made very thin, allowing high conductivity without risk of gas crossover, and (b) the electrolyte is immobilized and cannot be leached out of the cell. Also it is ecological cleanliness, considerably smaller massvolume characteristics and power costs and, that is very important, a high degree of gases purity, an opportunity of compressed gases obtaining directly in the installation, the increased level of safety [138].

62

Figure 4-5. Schematic of a PEM electrolyzer cell

The disadvantages of the solid-polymer-electrolyte (SPE) cell are that (a) the electrolyte costs more than the conventional alkaline solutions and (b) the electrolyte is corrosive and requires more expensive metal components to be used in the cell. For these reasons, solid-polymer-electrolyte cells are usually operated at somewhat higher current densities than cells that use a liquid alkaline electrolyte. Normally, different electrocatalysts are utilized for the anode (e.g. IrO2) and cathode (e.g. Pt). When the electrode layers are bonded to membrane, it is known as the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). The electrical contact and mechanical support is established with porous backings like metallic meshes or sinters. In a PEM water electrolyser hydrogen is produced by supplying water to the anode where it Equation 3). The protons are transported through the proton conductive membrane to the cathode. The electrons exit the cell via the external circuit, which supplies the driving force (i.e. cell potential) for the reaction. At the cathode the electrons and protons recombined to give hydrogen gas (Equation (16).
Anode : 2H2O 4H+ + O2 + 4eCathode : 4H+ + 4e- 2H2 Cell : 2H2O 2H2 + O2

(16) (17) (18)

63

Figure 4-6. The schematic diagram of the heart of a PEM electrolyzer.

The heart of a PEM electrolyzer is shown in the schematic diagram above. Its efficiency is a function primarily of membrane and electrocatalyst performance. This becomes crucial under high-current operation, which is necessary for industrial-scale application. The membrane consists of a solid fluoropolymer which has been chemically altered in part to contain sulphonic acid groups, SO3H, which easily release their hydrogen as positively-charged atoms or protons [H+]: SO3H -> SO3- + H+ (19)

These ionic or charged forms allow water to penetrate into the membrane structure but not the product gases, molecular hydrogen [H2] and oxygen [O2]. The resulting hydrated proton, H3O+, is free to move whereas the sulphonate ion [SO3-] remains fixed to the polymer side-chain. Thus, when an electric field is applied across the membrane the hydrated protons are attracted to the negatively-charged electrode, known as the cathode. Since a moving charge is identical with electric current, the membrane acts as a conductor of electricity. It is said to be a protonic conductor. A typical membrane material is sold by Du Pont under the trade name Nafion. It has several advantages over conventional electrolyzers which normally use an aqueous caustic solution for workable conductivity. Because Nafion is a solid, its acidity is self-contained and so chemical corrosion of the electrolyzer housing is much less problematic. Because it is an excellent gas separator, allowing water to permeate 64

almost to the exclusion of H2 and O2, it can be made very thin; typically only 100 microns, or one tenth of a millimetre. This also improves its conductivity so that the electrolyzer can operate efficiently even at high currents. It is said that the membrane suffers less from internal voltage losses due to a high current passing through a smaller resistance, as given by Ohms Law, viz., V = IR. However, the membrane also has some disadvantages. Unlike conventional polymers which are water-repellent, Nafion is a very expensive material. It must also be kept humidified constantly, otherwise its conductivity deteriorates. This last is never a serious problem in an electrolyzer because of contact with hot water, but the PEM fuel cell requires intensive water management for stable, continuous operation.

4.2.2 Stacks and systems

PEM-based electrolysis systems offer a number of attributes such as modular aspect (there is minimal penalty on efficiency due to unit size), all solid state system (no alkaline liquid electrolytes or its recycling involved and water and electricity are the only inputs required), pure hydrogen and oxygen generation (due to physical separation by solid electrolyte membrane), ability to produce hydrogen at a pressure (electrochemical compression), small footprint due to high current densities achievable (>1 A cm2 as compared to ~ 0.4 A cm2 by alkaline system) [139- 141].
1

Figure 4-7. PEM Electrolyzer Systems (20 W to 20 kW). Hydrogen production: 5 l/h to 5 Nm/h. Oxygen production: 2.5 l/h to 2.5 Nm/h

65

Figure 4-8. Appearance of electrolysis test using 10 cells layered stack. (Cell electrode area size: 1,000cm2) Operating pattern: Electrolysis 2Hr/Pause 30min. Operating conditions: Temp.353K/Press.0.7MPa Current density: 1A/cm2

4.2.3 State of art

PEM electrolysis technology due to its fast response time and start-up/shut-down characteristics (hydrogen generation starts immediately at ambient conditions) and ability to accept large variations in load is ideal for integration with intermittently available sources of electricity (renewable and off-peak grid). In addition, due to the similar aspects of the PEM electrolysis and fuel cell technologies, the impact on development and system cost reduction can be enormous. Presently, the use of PEM water electrolysis systems, with only a few commercial systems available [14,142- 145]. The restricting aspects of these systems are the high cost of the materials such as the electrolyte membrane and noble metalbased electrocatalysts, as well as the complex system components to ensure safe and reliable operation. Development of PEM electrolyzers (the principle scheme of electrolyzer cell with PEM is shown on Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis systems offers several advantages over traditional technologies including greater energy efficiency, higher production rates, and more compact design. This method of hydrogen production is envisioned in a future hydrogen society whereby hydrogen as the energy carrier is incorporated in an idealized energy cycle. In this cycle, electricity from renewable energy sources is used to electrochemically split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The only input to this cycle is the clean renewable energy and the only output is electric power. A basic schematic of a PEM water electrolysis cell is shown in Figures 6 is historically connected to development of perfluorinated ionexchange membranes Nafion from DuPont firm. The first PEM electrolyzers have been created in 1966 by company General Electric146. Such electrolyzers were
1 1

66

developed for the special purposes (spacecrafts, submarines, etc.), and also for needs of the civil industry. Nafion (E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company), which is a perfluorosulphonic acid membrane composed of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) backbone and pendant side chains terminating with -SO3-, has excellent chemical stability and high protonic conductivity. Water electrolysis using the membrane as a solid polymer electrolyte is a very promising method for large-scale hydrogen production [147- 150]. In the method, electrocatalysts are tightly bonded on both sides of the SPE membrane. Now scopes of PEM electrolyzers, besides fuel cells, are analytical instrument making, systems of correction of a water-chemical mode of nuclear reactors, hydrogen welding, metallurgy of especially pure metals and alloys, manufacture of pure substances for electronic industry, analytical chemistry (the equipment for a gas chromatography, maintenance with hydrogen of laboratories), etc. Research and development of electrolyzers with PEM were provided in Norway (Norwegian University of Science and Technology [151,152]), in Spain (David Systems and Technology) and also in Japan (Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. [153] and Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. [154- 156]). So, for instance, the certain progress has been achieved within the framework of Japanese program WE-NET [155,156] (an element with the area 2500 cm2, operating voltage (U) 1.556V at 80 oC and current density on a visible surface (i) 1 A/cm2 with efficiency of energy transformation 95.1 % that is explained by proximity to equilibrium potential 1.48 V). It allows speaking about increase in specific productivity of PEM electrolyzers. A lot of R&D was done in the field of PEM electrolyzers [146,151- 167], but high price has limited their mass production. High cost of membrane (about 200$ per 1 m3/ h of hydrogen at i = 1 A/cm2), the electrocatalyst with noble metal (Pt, Ir, Ru), high requirements to cleanliness of water and constructional materials (basically, Ti) result in rather high cost of such type of electrolyzers. On the other hand, cost of hydrogen produced by electrolysis usually approximately on 70 % consists of cost of electricity. Therefore decrease of power consumptions of PEM electrolyzers compensates relatively high capital expenses. The estimation, made for the same service life (about 5 years), shows, that cost of the hydrogen made by PEM electrolysis, even is less, than cost of the hydrogen made by an alkaline electrolysis, is especial if to take into account the cost of buildings, auxiliaries, clearing up of hydrogen and recycling of an alkaline solution. Obviously, essential enough reduction of price is possible at increase in scales of production and improvement of electrolyzers design. However, initially high cost of such electrolyzers was an obstacle for development of their large scale manufacture. It is necessary to note, that for manufacture of PEM electrolyzers the same materials and technologies as for PEM fuel cells are used (for example, the same membranes, catalysts on the basis of platinum metals, similar techniques of catalyst synthesis and applying are used). From this point of view, there are real preconditions for decrease of cost of PEM electrolyzers, related with the beginning of large-scale PEM fuel cells production. So, for example, today wholesale party price of Nafion membrane can already be reduced up to 200$/m2 and expected cost in the nearest future is less than 200$/m2 (or less than 50$ for 1m3/h of produced hydrogen at i = 1A/cm2). Creation of different PEM electrolyzers and installations on their basis with various productivity (from several millilitres up to tens cubic meters of hydrogen per
1 1 1 31 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

67

one hours, see Figures 9, 10, 11) was a result of R&D carried out in RRC Kurchatov Institute during last 20 years.

Figure 4-9. Photograph of PEM electrolyzer with hydrogen productivity 20 l / h and its components.

Figure 4-10. Photograph of PEM electrolyzer with hydrogen productivity 1.5m3 / h.

68

Figure 4-11. Photograph of PEM electrolyzer with hydrogen productivity 2m3 / h and operating pressure up to 30 Bar.

For the present moment significant experience on designing and manufacturing of laboratory and small-scale samples was saved up; there are design and technological development for manufacturing of electrolyzers components (membrane-electrode assemblies, current collectors, bipolar plates, sealing elements, etc.).
Electrocatalysts Since chemical (H2) energy is being created, a minimum energy must be input to drive the process according to the laws of thermodynamics. In terms of electrical energy, this corresponds to a voltage of 1.23V. In reality, the working voltage necessary to sustain water electrolysis is always greater than this. The extra voltage, generally known as the overvoltage, represents a waste of energy or loss of efficiency. It has two main causes, one of which is the IR loss due to the finite electrical resistance of the electrolyte, or membrane in this case (see above). The second is kinetic in origin, i.e., to do with the overall speed of the process at the electrode surface. A solid catalyst (M) speeds up chemical reactions due to its surface action. As a simple example, two H atoms held loosely on a surface are much more likely to collide and make H2 gas than if they are dispersed in a liquid with billions of water molecules in-between. This is a spatial or localized concentration effect. The case of O2 evolution is much more complex. Two water molecules must be broken into their constituent atoms; then the two O atoms must combine. The electrocatalyst at the anode is a special catalyst which facilitates this process by withdrawing electrons from the water such that the H atoms are ejected as protons, which enter the membrane. Water is said to be activated by charge-transfer. The OH or O atoms are

69

very reactive in their free state. However, when fixed at the surface by chemical bonds, they are much more stable. When more water encounters the surface, its protons are ejected in turn and O atoms are accumulated. These are then able to combine easily by surface diffusion just as described for hydrogen. It is said that the surface provides a low-energy pathway or a new mechanism, which is intrinsically much faster because the speed of the reaction is related exponentially to the energy difference. It is easy to visualize that if the cathode and anode surfaces, respectively, attract H or O atoms too strongly, the surfaces will become completely covered with these intermediates and the catalytic process stops. On the other hand, if protons or water are not attracted strongly enough, the process never gets going. Only when there is a moderate strength of binding of reactants and intermediates at the electrode surfaces will the right balance is obtained. This is the key factor in determining if a solid catalyst will work efficiently. It is also obvious that the larger is the catalyst surface area available, the more H2 and O2 will be produced in a given time, i.e., a higher current will flow in the electrolyzer. Platinum is long known to be the best catalyst for water electrolysis due to its moderate strength of adsorption of the intermediates of relevance. It has the lowest over-voltage of all metals. Because of its cost, and the preferred operation of the electrolyzer at high current, ingenious ways have been devised to deposit ultra-fine Pt particles either on the electrode support plate, or directly onto the membrane, which is then clamped for good electrical continuity. A current of 1-3 Amperes per square centimetre can be obtained from as little as 3 milligrams of Pt spread over the same area. Electrocatalysts on the carriers, mixed oxide catalytic compositions were developed, allowing to lower the loading of platinum metals without reduction of a resource [168]. Thus it was shown, that activity of a composition with 4050 at% of RuO2 is comparable to activity of pure IrO2, and parameters of electrolysis with RuO2(30%)-IrO2(32%)-SnO2(38%) as anode electrocatalyst at the loading of platinum metals 0.8 mg / cm2 are practically similar to parameters of electrolysis with iridium anode electrocatalyst with the loading 2.02.4 mg / cm2. Also rather good performances have PEM electrolyzers with Pd catalysts (including Pd on carbon carrier) on cathode. Performance data of electrolyzers are power consumption 3.94.1 kW-h / m3 of hydrogen at i = 1A/cm2, cell voltage U = 1.681.72V and t = 90 oC, cleanliness of hydrogen more than 99.98 %; operating pressure up to 30 Bar; the loading of noble metals 0.31.0 mg / cm2 on the cathode and 1.52.0 mg / cm2 on the anode; operation time up to 10 000 h. Development of electrolyzers operating under the pressure up to 150 Bar was provided. As it was already marked, essential interest represents an opportunity of carrying out PEM electrolysis of waters at the increased pressure. Researches have shown [169], that for electrolysis at increased (up to 30 Bar) pressure the improvement of voltamperic characteristic was observed at operating current density in comparison with electrolysis at atmospheric pressure. It is caused, first of all, by reduction of an anode overvoltage. So, at i = 2 A / cm2 the voltage of electrolysis decreases on 7080 mV (Fig. 6). Besides this the increased pressure allows to carry out electrolysis at temperature above 100 oC, thus reduction of power consumption due to reduction of membrane resistance and decrease of an overvoltage take place. In particular, at temperature 120 oC and pressure 25 Bar at current density 1 A / cm2 the voltage on a cell was 1.65 V. The theoretical analysis allows supposing, that the increase of pressure results in reduction of volume of gas bubble generated during

70

electrolysis that, in turn, promotes improvement of water transport, reduction of ohmic losses in catalytic layer and improvement of electric contact between catalytic layer and current collector. Recently IrxSn1-xO2 [170-,,173], IrxRu0.5-xSn0.5O2 [174], and IrxRuyTazO2 powders have been investigated as oxygen evolution electrocatalysts. Normally in these systems, the anode has the largest overpotential at typical operating current densities (normally around 10 kAm-2) [175]. Noble metal oxides as electrocatalysts are well established in many industrial electrochemical processes in the form of dimensionally stable anodes (DSA) as developed by Beer [176]. Ruthenium is known as the most active oxide for anodic oxygen evolution [177], however it suffers from instability and therefore should be stabilized with another oxide such as IrO2 178 or SnO2 [179]. Tantalum is a wellknown addition to DSA electrodes, and IrTa oxides have been suggested as the most efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution in acidic electrolytes due to the high activity and corrosion stability [180]. Although very comprehensive studies of the structural and electrochemical properties of DSA oxides have been carried out, little is known regarding the structure and electrocatalytic properties of oxide powders. This is mainly due to the prevalence of DSA electrodes in industrial processes compared with the same oxide compositions in particle form. In addition, it is well known that a wide range of preparation conditions affect the formation and properties of DSA type oxide layers [181] as will the presence of Ti originating from the substrate [182], and therefore analysis of powder-based oxides gives an insight to the specific nature of noble metal oxides as electrocatalysts while providing a possible use in PEM water electrolysis applications. By using a multi-disciplined approach to develop and characterize electrocatalysts, Marshall [183] achieved significant improvements to the performance and efficiency of a PEM water electrolysis cell. The best result was obtained with an Ir0.6Ru0.4O2 anode and 20 wt % Pt/C cathode, with a cell voltage of 1.567 V at 1 Acm-2 and 80 oC when using Nafion 115 as the electrolyte membrane.

4.3 High temperature alkaline electrolyzers

In water electrolysis, water is split into hydrogen and oxygen, according to equation (20), by an electric current which is passed between two electrodes submerged in an electrolyte.
H2O + electric energy + heat H2 +
1 2

O2

(20)

To split water, the electric voltage applied over the two electrodes must exceed a minimum value: the so-called decomposition or reversible voltage. The reversible voltage is determined by Gibbs free energy of water splitting and is thereby a function of both pressure and temperature. At 25 C and 1 atm of the reactants the reversible voltage is 1.23 V (see below). Water is a very poor ionic conductor, and ions must be added in order to form a conductive electrolyte so the reaction can proceed without too high resistance. Both alkaline and acidic solutions can be used. In the following only alkaline electrolysis will be described, where mainly potassium and sodium hydroxide solutions are used. Of potassium and sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide possesses the lowest resistance in the electrolyte and the lowest overpotential is archived. Therefore, in most commercial water electrolysers, potassium hydroxide solutions (25-30 wt %) are 71

used. In the following, alkaline electrolysis based on a potassium hydroxide electrolyte will be described. In alkaline electrolytes two basic reactions occurs at the electrodes (equation (21) and (22)). Cathode: Anode:
2 H2O + 2 e- H2 + 2 OH2 OH-
1 2

(21) (22) (23)

O2 + H2O + 2e1 2

Overall reaction:

H2O H2 +

O2

Most commercial potassium hydroxide water electrolysers use nickel electrodes and are operated at 70-80 C. Increasing the operating temperature influences the thermodynamic of the system, as will be described below. Only limited information on electrolysers operated at elevated temperatures (above 150 C) is available. A few authors have dealt with the theoretical thermodynamic aspects regarding electrolysis at high temperature [184- 187] .
1 1

4.3.1 Thermodynamic of water electrolysis

In examining the thermodynamics of the electrolytic process, the electrolysis cell is assumed to be ideal, consisting of a reversible hydrogen electrode and a reversible oxygen electrode immersed in a solution of potassium hydroxide at a total pressure of P and the temperature T. The hydrogen and oxygen in contact with the electrodes are assumed to be wetted, containing water vapour in equilibrium with the water in the electrolyte. Furthermore, the gasses are assumed to be ideal gasses. The endothermic heat consumed by the splitting of water is related to the enthalpy of formation of water Hf, which is described by Equation (24):
Hf = G + T S

(24)

The total energy (Hf) needed for water splitting consists of a minimum fraction of electrical energy (the Gibbs free energy Gf) and an entropy fraction ( T S f) as shown in equation 5. Reaction 1 is endothermic, and the electrolyser will cool unless heat ( T S f) is supplied.

4.3.2 Gibbs energy

The minimum thermodynamic voltage required for splitting of water is defined as the minimum reversible voltage (Erev), which is related to the Gibbs energy of formation of water. At standard conditions (25 C and 1 atm.) the minimum reversible voltage is:
Erev = 1 nF

G H2O f,
KJ
2

(25)
mol

The standard Gibbs free energy of formation of water is: G H O = -237.13 f,

, n is

equal to two for splitting of water and F is Faradays constant (96485 As/mol). The minimum required voltage at standard conditions for electrolysis of pure water (i.e. no alkaline electrolyte) is thereby 1.23 V at 25C and 1 atm partial pressure for both 72

oxygen and hydrogen. The reversible voltage at any pressure and temperature can be expressed by Nernst equation, which provides a relationship between the ideal standard potential ( Erev ) for the cell reaction and the reversible potential ( Erev ) at other partial pressures of reactants and products:
Erev =
1 nF

G H2O f,
PH2O
H2 PO2

1 nF

R T lnQ

(26)

where Q is the reaction activity ( Q= P

for reaction 4), which at standard state is

one for all reactants and products, thus Q = 1 and lnQ = 0 at standard state giving equation 6. Since the Gibbs free energy is a function of both temperature and pressure the minimum voltage required varies with temperature and pressure as can be seen in Figure 4-12, where Erev is shown as a function of temperature, pressure and electrolyte concentration. Increasing temperature reduces the reversible potential substantially. Thus it can be advantageous to operate the electrolysis at elevated temperatures. On the other hand, with increasing pressure the reversible potential increases corresponding to the increase in free energy of the product gasses, as can be seen in Figure 4-12 and Figure 4-13. This increase is equal to the energy cost of compression at 100% efficiency. Increasing the pressure can be beneficially regarding reduction of the relative volume of the gas bubbles, which in turn increases the conductivity of the electrolyte (see below).
1.4

, V)

1.3

Minimum thermodynamic voltage (U

1.2

25 C 50 C 100 C 150 C 200 C 250 C

1.1

0.9

0.8 0 5 10 15 20 25 30

Pressure (atm)

Figure 4-12. The minimum reversible voltage (Erev) required for the electrochemical splitting of water as a function of temperature and pressure for pure water.

73

4.3.3 Enthalpy
For water electrolysis, the enthalpy voltage is defined based on the enthalpy of formation of liquid water at the operation temperature and pressure. The minimum thermodynamic voltage (also called the enthalpy voltage), corresponds to the change in enthalpy during the electrolysis process, at the temperature of the electrolyte. The molar enthalpy thereby corresponds to the enthalpy voltage or the more popular name the thermo-neutral voltage (Etn).
Etn = - n1F H

(27)

where H as the molar enthalpy of formation. As Erev, Etn decreases with increasing electrolyte temperature; at 25 C, Etn is 1.48 V, and decrease to 1.43 V at 300 C. The effect of pressure on both oxygen and hydrogen is zero since they are assumed to be ideal gasses. In practice the enthalpy voltage for water has a slight dependence on the operating pressure due to the nonideal behaviour of the gasses. The thermo-neutral voltage is the voltage at which a perfectly insulated electrolyser would operate, if there were no net inflow or outflow of heat. The value of the thermo-neutral voltage is thereby a thermodynamic quantity, as a function of the operating conditions of electrolyte temperature, electrolyte concentration, and total pressure.
1.6 1.5 1.4 Entropy energy 1.3 Thermoneutral voltage (Etn)

Voltage

1.2 1.1 1 0.9 0.8 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 Gibbs' energy Reversible voltage (Erev )

Temperature [C]

Figure 4-13. Reversible and thermoneutral voltage and as a function of temperature.

As mentioned above, conventional electrolysers are operated at 70-80 C and a voltage of 1.7 1.9 V, thereby providing more electrical energy than thermodynamic necessary (above the thermoneutral voltage). The excess energy must be removed from the system by cooling water. The electrolysis voltage is the sum of the reversible voltage and a contribution, which accounts for losses due to the overpotentials in both electrodes and ohmic losses in the electrolyte as shown in Figure 4-14.

74

Figure 4-14. Prediction of voltage-current density performance for a 28w% KOH electrolyser operated at 70 C [188].

The ohmic loss in the electrolyte significantly contributes to the increased cell voltage necessary for the electrolysis. The conductivity increases up to 150 C, i.e. the ohmic losses in the electrolyte decreases with increasing temperature. Figure 4-15 shows the temperature dependence on the electrical conductivity for KOH and NaOH electrolytes.

Figure 4-15.Temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity of aqueous solutions of KOH and NaOH [189].

Because of the increased conductivity with temperature, a rise in the operation temperature would allow for significant energy savings. For NaOH, the conductivity passes through a maximum at around 150 C; an operating temperature above this limit would no longer be beneficial regarding the electrical conductivity of the electrolyte solution. On the other hand, for 50 %wt KOH, the highest conductivity is

75

found at temperatures above 200 C. Because of the high vapour pressure at elevated temperature it is necessary to operate the electrolyser at high pressure. With increasing pressure the relative volume of the formed hydrogen or oxygen gas bubbles is lowered. The bubbles cause ohmic losses, since the electrical conductivity of gasses is zero. Thus, the ohmic losses caused by bubbles are minimized at high pressure. On the other hand, with increasing pressure, gas accumulation within the porous electrode materials can occur. The consequence of gas bubbles within the porous electrode is that only a small fraction of the interfacial surface is efficiently used [190]. Consequently highly porous electrode materials are of great interest for electrolysers operated at high pressure. Increasing pressure is generally advantageous [191], where the increased minimum reversible voltage is cancelled by the lower ohmic loss due to the decreased relative volume of the gas bubbles, and faster kinetics of the electrode processes, i.e. lower overpotential. As described above, increasing the operating temperature would obviously increase the efficiency of water electrolysis. However, information on electrochemical studies of hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions in alkali solutions at elevated temperatures is scarce. As described above, a few authors have dealt with the theoretical aspects regarding high temperature electrolysis [184187]. To the best of our knowledge only very limited experimental data for alkaline electrolysis at temperatures at 150 C and above have been reported [192- 194]. Nevertheless it was proven that the efficiency of water electrolysis for the production of hydrogen over polished nickel electrodes increases significantly by high temperature operation as shown in Figure 4-16 [193].
3 1

Figure 4-16. Potential vs. current density for hydrogen and oxygen evolution on polished nickel electrodes in 50 wt% KOH solutions at temperatures from 80 C to 264 C [193].

76

From Figure 4-16 it is clear that an increase in temperature has a more pronounced effect on the oxygen evolution than the hydrogen evolution reaction. Increasing the temperature significantly shifts the oxygen evolution reaction to lower potentials, which was explained by the slow kinetics of the oxygen electrode reaction [193]. For the hydrogen evolution reaction, only small shifts in potential were observed at temperatures above 150 C at low current densities. Nevertheless, substantial overpotentials are found for the hydrogen evolution reaction on nickel electrodes in alkaline solutions at lower temperatures [193]. For the oxygen evolution reaction the potential at a current density of 0.3 A/cm2 decreases from 1.73 volts to 1.26 volts by increasing the temperature from 80 C to 264 C (1.59 volts at 150C and 1.41 volts at 108 C), whereas for the hydrogen evolution reaction, a slightly smaller decrease was observed from -0.44 volts at 80 C to -0.18 volts at 264 C (-0.34 volts at 150C and 0.24 volts at 108 C) over the polished nickel electrodes, as shown in Figure 4-16. The dual region of the Tafel slope was explained by a change in mechanism due to the magnetic properties of nickel, although at present the exact mechanism is not understood. Regardless of the interpretation of the Tafel slopes, it is evident that increase in temperature significantly improves the kinetics of both oxygen and hydrogen evolution, and electrolysis at elevated temperatures would be beneficially. As can be seen from Fig. 3, also overpotential related to the ohmic resistance of the electrode materials contribute significantly to the electrolysis voltage. The known materials for alkaline electrolysis are very limited because of corrosion, and they become increasingly limited at elevated temperatures.

4.3.4 Materials
Both platinum and palladium shows lower overpotential for oxygen evolution than nickel, but because of economical reasons, nickel is almost exclusively used in conventional electrolysers [195,196]. To decrease the overpotential, several alloys (Ti-Ni [197]and Ni-Ir, Ni-Ru, Ni-Mo [198]) were tested and showed slightly lower overpotential. For pure nickel electrodes, mainly Raney-nickel, i.e. leached nickel is used, because of the high active surface area and porosity. Other highly porous materials such as Pt/C was suggested as alternatives to the nickel electrodes [199201] .Nickel materials have also shown relative low overpotential for hydrogen evolution. Of more advanced materials, spinel and perovskites (Co3O4, NiCo2O4, LaNiO3 and La0.5Sr0.5CoO3) were shown to perform better as oxygen electrode (anode) than pure nickel, although Raney-nickel was shown to perform with lowest overpotential in one study [202]. Contrary, other studies showed that the mixed metal oxides, and especially spinel and perovskites (Co3O4, NiCo2O4, LaNiO3 and SrCoO3) were the preferred anode materials [203,204]. Most electrode materials have been tested at temperatures up to 160 C with a slight increased thermal degradation at high temperature [195-197,203,204]. Conventional nickel electrodes was shown to withstand temperatures up to 200 C, as they were used for the Apollo Fuel Cell System [205]. The separators/diaphragms with the electrolyte serve as an ionic conducting material as well as separating the product gasses. Separation of the product gasses becomes increasingly important at high pressure where oxygen become highly soluble in the electrolyte (KOH). For low temperature electrolysers, the separator/diaphragm can be nickel oxide, asbestos or polymer. Both the polymers and asbestos become instable at temperatures above 120 C [189]. Therefore at high temperature
2 3

77

electrolysis new separator/diaphragm materials should be developed. Oxide-ceramic diaphragms such as ceramics of titanates (BaTiO3 and CaTiO3) or even NiO [189,206,207] can be suitable substitutes for the polymeric or asbestos separators/diaphragms at high temperatures. The construction material for the electrolyser has to withstand the enhanced general corrosion as well as stress corrosion at high temperature operation. Titanate based ceramics or titanate coated Ni-alloys can probably be used for construction of commercial alkaline electrolysers operating above 200 C, but it remains to be proven over periods of several years.

4.3.5 Conclusion
Increasing the operation temperature for alkaline water electrolysis significantly increase the efficiency. A possible obstacle for operating at elevated temperature is the lower stability of the materials. The biggest problem in designing and developing a large scale water electrolysis plant to operate at elevated temperatures will be the development of suitable substitute materials for the separator material. Thus the question to be answered considering electrolysis at elevated temperature is whether the efficiency benefit made by the high temperature operation is sufficient to compensate for increased research and development. At present suitable materials have been identified which are not more expensive than existing separator materials.

4.4 Solid Oxide Electrolyser Cells

4.4.1 Introduction
Electrolysis is a 200-year-old method for hydrogen production, and still electrolysis is presently, and for the foreseeable future, the only method of practical importance for hydrogen production by splitting of water. The chlorine-alkaline electrolysis, which is worldwide the largest source of electrolytic produced hydrogen, has been in commercial use for about 100 years. In this process hydrogen is regarded as a byproduct and chlorine is the main product. Only a vanishing small portion (of the order of 0.1 %) of the world production of hydrogen is produced directly by water electrolysis. Even this small quantity has been declining during the recent years since the electrolytic production of hydrogen for fertilizer manufacture is not competitive with production from natural gas. [208]. Recently, a strongly increased interest in hydrogen and CO2 neutral energy production has aroused, [209,210] and very enthusiastic but not necessarily realistic visions have been published. [211]. The hydrogen economy vision has been rejected by Bossel et al. [212,213] and the rejection is convincing. From Bossels reports one may get the impression that it does not make sense at all to use electrical energy for electrolysis for hydrogen production. Bossels main argument is that there is a big loss of the order of 75 - 80 % in converting electricity into hydrogen and back to electricity again, whereas there is only about a 10 % loss in transporting electricity by the grid. This argument is also correct in its essence even though the exact loss in converting electricity into hydrogen may be lower for future electrolyser generations than the usually assumed 30 %. Another feature pointed out by Bossel is that molecular hydrogen is troublesome and expensive to handle.

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We think that in spite of these arguments there might be a future market for efficient electrolysers, which can split not only water but also carbon dioxide and produce synthesis gas, a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. All types of hydrocarbon based fuel may be produced from H2 and CO. Especially it is inexpensive to produce the simplest synthetic fuels, namely methane, CH4, the main constituent in natural gas, and methanol, CH3OH. Also synthetic petrol and diesel may be (and have been in Germany during Second World War) produced from synthesis gas in large quantities using the Fischer-Tropsch method. [214] Today new large plants for manufacturing of synthetic diesel from synthesis gas using FischerTropsch are being built due to the high oil price. The synthesis gas is made by steam reforming of cheap natural gas, which is available in certain places, e.g. the Near East. Synthesis gas may also be produced from coal. It is generally believed that production of synthetic fuels will be profitable, if the price of crude oil will be stable above 50 US$ per barrel. The question is there a possible market for efficient electrolysis? can only be answered by economic assessments. It is clear that the market will only be there if one of two conditions will be fulfilled: 1) the price per unit energy of fossil fuel is significant higher than the price for alternative energy like renewable energy (wind, solar, hydropower) or nuclear energy; or 2) fossil fuel consumption is restricted by political means. As a first step in answering if is possible to fulfil condition 1), the hydrogen and CO production price will be discussed below. The discussion assumes a CO2 price; however the price of CO2 of a reasonable purity is a complicated story and will not be discussed in detail here. Instead a discussion on possible methods to extract CO2 from the air is given after the discussion on production prices. However, first a brief review of reversible solid oxide cells (SOC) is given followed by a status of the state of the art of the SOC technology.

4.4.2 SOEC History and Background

The reversibility of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC), i.e. that they can also work in the solid oxide electrolyser cell (SOEC) mode, was proven already 25 years ago by A.O. Isenberg. [215] Electrolysis of both water (steam) and CO2 was demonstrated. Recently, the increasing interest in hydrogen production has created further interest in the solid oxide cells (SOC) as electrolyser. During the time since the work of Isenberg the power density of the SOC has increased significantly, or in other words, the area specific internal cell resistance has been decreased substantially at least for fresh cells. In this section we give a short introduction to the SOEC technology and present a review of the international state of the art of SOCs. High temperature electrolysers were under development during the 1980'es. One advantage of the high temperature is that a part of the energy required for water splitting is obtained in the form of high temperature heat, and thus the electrolysis is performed with lower electricity consumption. The discussions focused on the use of heat from solar concentrators or waste heat from power stations for this purpose [216]. Due to a low energy price this development was stopped around 1990. The high temperature solid oxide electrolyser cell (SOEC) has the advantage that it can also split CO2 into CO and O2. Further, the high temperature is speeding up the reaction kinetics, which in turn decreases the internal cell resistance and, thereby, increases the energy efficiency. These features open up new potential possibilities for a broader application of renewable or nuclear energy in the future, if fossil fuels

79

become scarce, and therefore several R&D-projects on SOEC are now being started again both in Europe, USA and Japan. [210,217- 219]. A system consisting of a heat exchanger and a reversible SOC system has clear advantages compared to low temperature electrolysis. Because both H2O and CO2 electrolysis are increasingly endothermic with temperature, electricity demand can be significantly reduced, if the formation of hydrogen is taking place at high temperatures (600-1000 C) as discussed in the section about fundamentals and to be discussed further below. The electric energy need is reduced because the unavoidable Joule heat of an electrolysis cell is utilized in the electrolysis process at high temperature. If heat is available from sources such as heat of geothermal (e.g. on Island), solar or nuclear origin, this will further reduce the electric energy demand for hydrogen production by steam electrolysis. Even where such high temperature heat is not available SOEC may be of interest. All heat sources with temperatures above 100 C (the boiling point of water) are extremely beneficial since electric energy for steam rising will be saved. The Faradaic efficiency of SOEC has been shown to be 100 % over a period of 1000 h [216], i.e. there are no parasitic reactions. This taken together with the endothermic nature of the electrolysis process means that the H2 or CO efficiency, defined as the total chemical energy (enthalpy of reaction, H) in the H2 or CO divided by the electric energy consumed, will be 100 % minus the heat loss from the electrolyser to the surroundings. Thus, for well-insulated SOEC stacks in systems in the range of 1 MW or above (ca. 1 m3 stack volume) the thermal loss can most probably be well below 10 %. Also, some electric energy will be consumed in the system for inverters and pumps, but again for reasonably sized systems this may be few % only. This means that the SOEC technique has a potential efficiency of ca. 90 % for a system.
2

Figure 4-17. Sketch of an SOEC system for synthetic fuel production by electrolysis of steam and CO2. CO2 and H2O are fed through the heat exchanger to the cell. Here it is split into H2 and CO (syngas) and O2. On the way out, the synthesis gas is catalysed into synthetic fuel using a catalyst.

As will be discussed below SOEC can split carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide and oxygen, and the CO2 splitting has endothermicity similar to that of water splitting. This means that electrolysis of a mixture of steam and carbon dioxide results in a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide called synthesis gas or short: syngas. By catalytic reactions a number of other energy carriers may be produced from syngas. The two simplest are methanol and methane. The preferred catalyst for CH4 formation is Ni. Since the negative electrode of a SOC is partly made of Ni it is in principle

80

possible to produce CH4 within the cell (at high pressure and low temperature)[12]. The entropy change for CH4 production from CO2 and H2O is nearly zero. This means that the overall efficiency for a conversion of electricity to CH4 and back again can be very high, if the reaction kinetics are fast, since only small reaction entropy losses occur. The catalytic reaction to form CH4 or CH3OH from syngas can also be done in a heat exchanger after the cell as sketched in Figure 2. This means that the energy for H2O vaporization can be produced within the system. A combination of the two ways to produce CH4 may prove to be the best production method, since it seems to optimize efficiency and production rate.

4.4.3 SOEC state of the art at Ris

The SOC of all types are basically reversible cells and can be operated as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) for electricity production and as well as solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC) for production of hydrogen and synthesis gas. Figure 3 presents the kinetics for SOCs fabricated and tested at Ris in both fuel cell mode (SOFC) and electrolyser mode (SOEC) at different temperature and steam partial pressure. [220] It illustrates that the cell is genuinely reversible as the I-V curves go smoothly through the zero-current-density-point.

Figure 4-18. Kinetics of a Ris SOC working as an electrolyser cell (negative current densities, i) and as a fuel cell (positive current densities, i) at different temperatures and steam or CO2 partial pressures in the inlet gas to the cell. [220]

At a cell voltage of 1.48 V the produced joule heat within the cell equals the consumed heat in the steam generation plus the steam electrolysis process. 1.48 V is therefore called thermoneutral potential (Etn). At Etn and 950 C with 70% H2O + 30% H2 in the inlet gas a current density of -3.6 A/cm2 was measured with 30% steam utilization. To the authors best knowledge this is the highest current density reported in the literature for SOEC operation. Also included in Figure 3 is an i-V curve at 950 C with 70% CO2 + 30% CO in the inlet gas. At -1.5 A/cm2 the cell voltage was 1.29 V and the CO2 utilization was 21 %. The internal resistance (the slope of the i-V curve) is almost as good in electrolyser mode as in fuel cell mode.

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A low internal resistance of the cell both at start-up and during thousands of hours of electrolysis operation is important if SOCs should become interesting from a commercial point of view, because the hydrogen production price is dependent on the resistance of the cell. So far only few results on durability of high performing SOECs have been reported in the literature. Even though the operation of the SOCs is reversible and have comparable initial performance in electrolysis and fuel cell mode, the degree of degradation (or passivation) of the cells during long-term testing in fuel cell and electrolysis operation mode can be dramatically different as seen by comparison of test of the same types of cell in the two modes [221,222]. Whereas the cell in fuel cell mode is reasonably stable over years with high current density 1 - 2 Acm-2, it is in the electrolyser mode only stable at relatively low current density at 0.5 Acm-2, and even this has not yet been demonstrated over years. Figure 4 shows that the cell voltage first increases slightly and then is stable over 1500 h.

1.2 1

Cell Voltage (V)

0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400

Time (h)
Figure 4-19: Cell voltage measured during 1500 hours of electrolysis testing. Experimental conditions were kept constant at 0.5 A/cm2, 850C, p(H2O) = 0.5 atm and p(H2) = 0.5 atm to the hydrogen electrode and O2 was passed over the oxygen electrode. The steam utilization was 28%. Time zero is the point of time where 0.5 A/cm2 is applied.

Strong indications have been found that the passivation in fuel cell mode is due to an accumulation of impurities at the three phase boundaries. [222,223] The phenomenon is under further study at Ris. We believe strongly that this passivation can be handled by proper handling of the trace impurities in the hydrogen electrode. However, the impurities seem to be silica originating from the glass sealing, and thus the durability may be increased by improving the sealing. The degradation problem at high current densities must be solved before an acceptable SOEC lifetime can be achieved. This may take a considerable R&D effort of many man-years over several calendar years.
82

4.4.4 International SOEC status

A number of SOEC topics are currently being discussed in the literature such as diffusion limitations, [224,225] heat management, [226] performance and durability, [223,227,228] impurity studies, [229]microstructure, ball milling and preparation, [230,231]performance of LSM, LSF and LSCo anodes, [232]ceria based composites, [219,233] application of proton conductors, [234]system studies, [235,236]and life cycle assessments. [209] Table 4-1 summarizes the literature results of area specific internal resistances (ASR) of SOECs at similar conditions. The variation is large, but by examination of the references it seems that there is some correlation to the year of publication. In other words, the SOCs have been improved very significantly over time due to the large international R&D efforts. There are good reasons to believe that these improvements will continue to happen during the coming years. A discussion on the H2 and CO production prices using SOEC technology is given in the next section.
Table 4-1. Some reported initial performances of electrolysis cells. Comparison of ASRs obtained from i-V-curves. The ASRs are taken as the slopes in the linear regions of the electrolysis i-V-curves presented in the references sited. For each reference is given the ASR measured on full cells with experimental conditions best matching the ones of Figure 4-18.

Ref. [223] [223] [216] [237] [238] [239] [240] [219] [241]

T [C] 850 950 1000 908 1000 1000 850 900 850

p(H2O) [atm] 0.50 0.50 0.67 0.67 0.91 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.11

p(H2) [atm] 0.50 0.50 0.33 0.33 0.09 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.89

ASR [cm2] 0.27 0.15 1.17 2.7 2 0.7 0.45 1.8 0.35

Specifications Ni/YSZ-YSZ-LSM planar Ni/YSZ-YSZ-LSM planar Ni/YSZ-YSZ-LSM tubular Ni/YSZ-YSZ-LSM tubular Ni/YSZ-YSZ-LSM Ni/YSZ-YSZ-LSM Ni/YSZ-ScSZ(175 m)LSM Ni/SDC-YSZ-LSC Ni/YSZ-ScSZ(125 m)-LSM

As it is well known from the SOFC literature, the properties and performance of cells are very dependent on the exact details of the fabrication procedure. This gives rise to a lot of apparent contradiction in the literature such as several claim of LSM being a bad oxygen electrode in contrast to the Ris findings that LSM is an excellent and very durable electrode. In conclusion it may be stated that of the SOC tested in SOEC mode and reported in the literature the Ris cell have the best performance.

83

4.5 Economic modelling of H2 and CO production using SOEC

As already mentioned the high temperature steam electrolysis using SOECs has gained renewed interest during the last few years. [209,210,227,230,231,235,242246]
2 2 2

A simplified model system is used to make an economic modelling, which has mainly two purposes: 1) to assess the commercial potential of the SOEC, i.e. is it at all conceivable that SOEC systems may become commercial? and 2) to make a sensitivity analysis. The direction for SOEC optimization is trivial from a technical point (the internal resistance should be as low as possible, the lifetime as long as possible, the materials as cheap as possible etc). Thus, the only way of making a reasonable priority of the R&D efforts is to find out which technical parameters are influencing the economy the most. At the present stage of R&D the actual economic figures are very uncertain and should only be regarded as best estimates. Some of the input is based on the results of a cell test at Ris. An SOEC of 8 2 cm Ni/YSZ (yttria stabilized zirconia) supported solid oxide cell with a 300 m thick support layer, a 10 m thick Ni/YSZ electrode, a 10 m thick YSZ electrolyte and a 20 m thick LSM(strontium doped lanthanum manganate) /YSZ electrode was tested at ambient pressure in a setup where the cell was sandwiched between two alumina blocks. [247- 250] The production cost below is given in equivalent crude oil prices using the higher heating value (HHV) of the H2, the CO and the crude oil. For comparison it can be mentioned that 100 US/kg H2 app. corresponds to 43 $/barrel crude oil using the higher heating value (HHV). 10 US/kg CO corresponds to app. 60 $/barrel crude oil, again using the HHV.
2 2

4.5.1.1 System description

The system used to estimate H2 production cost is shown in Figure 4-20. Water is fed to the system where it is demineralised and subsequently evaporated by heat supplied from an external heat reservoir. In order to keep the Ni in the Ni/YSZ electrode reduced, a small part of the produced H2 is recycled. The inlet gas is further heated in a heat exchanger by the hot outlet gas. Finally at the SOEC stack the water is electrolyzed into H2. The same system sketch applies to the estimation of CO cost, except no CO2 evaporation is involved.

Figure 4-20. Sketch of high temperature steam electrolysis using an SOEC stack. The same sketch applies to CO2 electrolysis except no CO2 evaporation is involved.

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If steam and CO2 electrolysis is combined, the produced synthesis gas can be catalyzed into various types of synthetic fuel. The heat generated in the catalysis reaction can be utilized for steam generation which means the heat reservoir becomes more or less superfluous. Figure 4-21 shows a sketch of a steam and CO2 electrolysis system combined with a synthetic fuel catalyst. The hydrocarbon fuel produced at the catalyst may be condensed and the left-over synthesis gas may be recycled, and this will keep the Ni in the Ni/YSZ-electrode reduced.

Figure 4-21. Sketch of SOEC steam and CO2 electrolysis combined with synthetic fuel production. The heat generated in the catalysis reaction may be utilized for water evaporation.

4.5.1.2 Thermodynamics and pressurization

The thermo-neutral voltage is defined as
H f

ETn =

nF

(28)

where H f is the formation enthalpy, n is the number of electrons involved in the reaction and F is faradays constant. At ETn the heat consumption from the endothermic electrolysis reaction equals the produced Joule heat within the SOEC i.e. no surplus heat (waste heat) is produced and the stack needs no cooling. For CO2 electrolysis, ETn = 1.46 V at 0.1 MPa, 950 C. For steam electrolysis, ETn = 1.29 V at 950 C, 0.1Mpa. Hence, electrolysis of a steam/CO2 mixture can be performed at thermo-neutral conditions at a cell voltage between 1.29 V and 1.46 V depending on the steam electrolysis/CO2 electrolysis ratio. As mentioned above, both the CO2 and the steam electrolysis reaction becomes increasingly endothermic with temperature which is also seen in Figure 4-22 for steam electrolysis. This figure shows the energy demand for the steam electrolysis reaction with 99% H2O + 1% H2 at the Ni/YSZ electrode and 100% O2 at the LSM/YSZ electrode at 1 atm and 200 atm. Note how the evaporation temperature and the electric energy demand, ( -G f ) , increases with pressure. The data used to construct the figure was acquired from NIST Chemistry Webbook. [251]

85

Figure 4-22. H2O splitting energies calculated at 1 and 200 atm. with data acquired from Nist Chemistry webbook. [251].

4.5.2 The experimental results used as input

The top graph of Figure 4-23 show SOEC i-U curves obtained at various temperatures and gas compositions. Details are given in Table 4-2. The bottom graph show the area specific resistance corrected for gas conversion which is found from the i-U curves. The CCASR calculation method is described in Appendix 1 in this chapter. The CCASR is fairly independent of the current density. Hence, average values of the CCASR are used to estimate the CCASR at any given temperature between 650 C and 950 C. The average values are plotted in the inset vs. 1000/T and fitted with a third order polynomial.
Table 4-2. i-U curve operating conditions.

i-U curve

*D

*E

Temperature H2O conc. [vol%] Max H2O utilization [%] Total gas flow rate [l/h] OCV [V]
+ +

650 C 50 10 25 0.991 1.53 1.53

750 C 50 23 25 0.960 0.53 0.53

850 C 50 50 25 0.929 0.23 0.22

950 C 72 37 45 0.881 0.16 0.15

950 C 70 # 22 33 0.868
#

ASR [ cm2] CCASR [ cm ]

2

0.23 0.22

*LSM/YSZ electrode gas was 20 l/h O2 instead of 140 l/h air. # Ni/YSZ electrode gas composition was CO2/CO instead of H2O/H2.

86

Area specific resistance and conversion corrected ASR is described in Appendix 1 in this chapter.

In Table 4-2 is both shown the ASR and the CCASR values. Due to the limited utilization ratios the difference between the ASR and the CCASR values are very small. At higher utilization ratios the difference becomes more significant. For instance, if the ASR is 0.2 cm2, the inlet gas consists of 95% H2O + 5% H2 and the outlet gas consists of 95% H2 + 5% H2O, the CCASR is only 0.13 cm2. The CCASR parameter is more adequate for modelling than ASR since it allows for a more precise estimation of the H2 or CO production rate at utilizations differing from the experimental ones. Only one i-U curve was recorded with CO2/CO. The ratio between the CCASR values of D and E in Table 4-2 is 1.5. Hence, as an estimation of the average CCASR value of CO2 electrolysis is taken the third order polynomial for H2O electrolysis multiplied by 1.5.

Figure 4-23. Top graph: i-U curves obtained at different temperatures. Details on gas compositions are given in Figure 4-2. Bottom graph: Area specific resistance corrected for gas conversion at the electrodes (CCASR) The inset show average CCASR values vs. 1000/T. These values are fitted by a third order polynomial (black line).

4.5.3 Economic input

Table 4-3 shows the assumptions for the H2 and CO cost estimations. Electricity from nuclear power sources has been estimated to be 2.1-3.1 US /kWh. [219] Non-firm (or secondary) geothermal electricity prices for the power intense industry at Iceland lay between 1-1.4 ISK(2002)/kWh from 1990 to 2002 with an average about 1.2 ISK(2002)/kWh. [252] This corresponds to 1.3 US/kWh with an average 2002 87

exchange rate between ISK(2002) and USD(2002) of 0.011. In Norway, between 1997 and 2003, the average cost price for the iron/steel and ferro alloy industry was 11 re/kWh again corresponding to 1.3 US /kWh. [253] This reflects the choice of the electricity price.
Table 4-3. Cost estimation input parameters

Electricity price Heat price Investment cost Demineralised Water cost CO2 cost Interest rate Life time Operating activity Cell temperature Heat reservoir temperature Pressure Cell voltage (H2O electrolysis) Cell voltage (CO2 electrolysis) Energy loss in heat exchanger H2O or CO2 concentration in inlet gas H2O or CO2 utilization

1.3US/kWh (3.6US$/GJ) 0.3US/kWh 4000 US$/m2 cell area 2.3 US$/m3 2.3 US$/ton 5% 10 years. 50% 850 C 110 C 0.1 MPa 1.29 V 1.47 V 5% 95% 95%

A 5kW plant based on SOFC technology is predicted to cost 350-550US$/kWe. [254] Assuming a power output of 1W/cm2 this corresponds to an investment cost of 35005500US$/m2 cell area. As input for our estimations we choose 4000 US$/m2 cell area. Demineralised water costs with systems such as the Recoflo system with a capacity of 45m3/hour has been reported as low as 0.43 US$/1000 gal corresponding to 0.11US$/m3. [255] The choice of 2.3 US$/m3 reflects the price of the water itself, the demineralization and perhaps a further purification in order to avoid problems with impurities polluting the SOEC.

4.5.3.1 Calculated H2 production cost

This section presents H2 cost calculations based on the assumptions in Table 4-3. Whenever the assumptions differ from the ones in the table it is specified below the figure.

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Figure 4-24. H2 production cost vs. electricity price at various investment costs. Details on the assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3. The pie diagram show the parts of the production price.

Figure 4-24 shows the hydrogen production price as function of electricity price. The estimation is based on the assumptions in Table 4-3 and the cell performance measured in the i-U curve shown in Figure 4-23. Details on the calculation methods are given in Appendix. The point marks the H2 cost given the assumptions in Table 4-3. In this case the calculated current density was -1.5 A/cm2 and the H2 cost was 71 US/kg equivalent to 30$/barrel crude oil using the HHV. Note that electricity accounts for the main part of the production cost and that the second major contribution to the production cost is to pay off the loans.

Figure 4-25. H2 cost vs. lifetime and investment. Details on the calculation assumptions are specified in Table 4-3. The pie diagram show the parts of the production price.

Figure 4-25 shows the H2 cost vs. the life time at different investment costs. Details on the economy assumptions are given in Table 4-3 and the calculation method is discussed in Appendix 2 in this chapter. Note that the lifetime can be reduced to about 5 years without dramatic increases in production cost.

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Figure 4-26. H2 cost vs. cell voltage calculated various investment costs and lifetimes. Details on the assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3.

Figure 4-26 shows the H2 cost vs. cell voltage at various investment costs and lifetimes. It is interesting to note how the economic balance between high production rates (high cell voltage) and high efficiency (low cell voltage) changes with the lifetime and investment cost: At 5 years lifetime and >4000 $/m2 it is most favourable with a high production rate and a low efficiency. At 10 years lifetime and <4000$m2 it is most favourable with a high efficiency and a lower production rate. Figure 4-27 shows H2 cost vs. cell voltage at various operation temperatures and investment costs. Details on assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3.. Again it is interesting to see how the economic balance between high production rates and high efficiencies changes with cell temperature (i.e. internal resistance and in turn current density) and investment costs. In general a high cell temperature and a low investment cost shift the economic balance towards higher production efficiencies.

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Figure 4-27. H2 cost vs. cell voltage at various operation temperatures and investment costs. Details on assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3.

Figure 4-28 shows the H2 cost vs. pressure. The reason why the production costs increases with pressure is because the current density at a constant cell voltage decreases with increasing pressure due to the increase in the reversible voltage (i.e. cell voltage at 0 A/cm2). It should be noted that the volumetric energy density is higher in pressurized H2 than in un-pressurized H2 which makes it more valuable due to a more efficient storage and handling.

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Figure 4-28. H2 cost vs. pressure and investment cost. The cell voltage was 1.31 V and the heat reservoir was 10 C warmer than the H2O evaporation temperature. Further details on the assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3.

4.5.3.2 Calculated CO production costs

This section presents CO cost calculations based on the assumptions in Table 4-3. Whenever the assumptions differ from the ones in the table it is specified below the figure. It is difficult to get a good estimate of what CO2 would cost if it is based on a non- fossil fuel technology. The Gibbs free energy required to capture CO2 from air is 140 kWh/ton. If electricity at a cost of 1.3 US is used, this corresponds to 1.8 US$/ton. Since technology for such a "wind scrubber" technology is very immature no good price estimation could be found. The historic stock market price for CO2 emission allowances is presented in Figure 4-29. Note that the final low price was due to an over-allocation of allowances to the market. The stock market price for EUA 2008 (CO2 allowances in 2008) are currently about 15 /ton CO2.

Figure 4-29. The graph show the development of Point Carbon's bid-offer closing price for EU allowances (EUA 2005, EUA 2006 and EUA 2007).

Since the CO is produced by means of electrolysis of CO2 there is no overall CO2 emission when burning off the CO. Hence the CO should be economically competitive with fossil CO (i.e. CO made from coal) if the production cost equals that of fossil CO plus the cost of CO2 emission allowance. Figure 4-30 shows the CO production cost as function of electricity price. The estimation is based on the assumptions in Table 4-3 and the cell performance measured in the i-U curve shown in Figure 4-23. Details on the calculation methods are given in Appendix. The point marks the CO cost given the assumptions in Table 4-3. In this case the calculated current density was -1.6 A/cm2 and the CO cost was 5.6 US/kg equivalent to 34$/barrel crude oil using the HHV. Note how the electricity accounts for the main part of the production cost and that the second major contribution to the production cost is to pay of the loans. Carbon formation could probably cause the Ni/YSZ electrode to degrade and this issue has to be investigated. However, the electrode seemed stable towards carbon formation at the maximum cell voltage in the CO2 i-U curve in Figure 4-23. Here the maximum current density was -1.5 A/cm2 at 950 C and 1.29 V which is not far from the -1.6A/cm2 that is used in the calculation.

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Figure 4-30. CO cost vs. electricity price at various investment costs. The cell voltage was 1.47 V. Details on calculation assumptions are specified in Table 4-3.

Figure 4-31 shows the CO cost vs. lifetime. At 6 years the electricity still constitutes the major part of the CO cost.

Figure 4-31. CO cost vs. lifetime. The cell voltage was 1.47 V. Details on calculation assumptions are specified in Table 4-3.

Figure 4-32 shows the CO cost vs. cell voltage. At low investment cost it is preferable to operate the cell at a low cell voltage, and Figure 4-33 gives the dependence on pressure.

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Figure 4-32. CO cost vs. cell voltage at various investment costs. Further details on the assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3.

Figure 4-33. CO cost vs. pressure. The cell voltage was 1.47 V. Further details on the assumptions for the calculation are specified in Table 4-3.

4.5.4 Discussion of the results of the economic calculations

It is seen from the pie diagrams in Figure 4-24, Figure 4-25, Figure 4-30 and Figure 4-31 that the electricity costs dominates the investment of the instalment for both the H2 production costs. This incident combined with the fact the H2O and CO2 electrolysis reaction is highly endothermic provides a unique opportunity to make an energy conversion that is both economically viable and highly efficient. From Figure 4-26 and Figure 4-27 it is seen that this situation is realized when the investment costs are low, the lifetime is long and the operating temperature is high (i.e. the internal resistance is low). The major obstacle for this technology is the lifetime which has to be improved. During the last three years it has been shown on Ris that the stoichiometric albeit glass sealings that usually are used to seal the gasses from the surroundings seem to make the Ni/YSZ electrode degrade with unacceptably short lifetimes as result. A seal-less test of a Ris cell at Karlsruhe/EIfER strengthen this hypothesis. The test was performed at 800 C, -0.5A/cm2, and 50% H2O in the inlet gas. The cell voltage increase was 15 mV/1000h. This is still too high to achieve the desired lifetime of 5 to 10 years. It is suggested that further R&D should focus on lowering the investment costs to app. 2000$/m2 and to assure lifetimes of more than 5 years while keeping the realized performance, corresponding to current densities above 1 A/cm2 at thermoneutral potential. This will enable the technology to produce H2 and CO having the lowest production costs around the thermo-neutral potential. At these cell voltages the electricity to fuel efficiency is more than 90% for both H2 and CO production. It should be noted that a more detailed calculation should incorporate the loss of heat to the surroundings which will decrease the overall efficiency. However these losses

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can be minimized using inexpensive materials such as mineral wool and by using large scale electrolyser units. A 10 l pressure bottle, capable of 230 bar cost app. 270 $. [256,257] The SOEC stack density is app. 0.25 m2 cell area per litre. [258] Hence, the expense to pressurization can be approximated to be 270 kr l 108$ = 2 2 10 l 0.25 m m (29)

Compared with the 2000-6000 $/m2 installation expense used in the economic assumption, the expense to pressurization facilities is believed to be small.

4.5.4.1 Synthetic fuel production

Methanol and DME

A Cu/ZnO-Al2O3 catalyst is normally used for methanol synthesis with operation conditions around 200 C - 300 C at 4.5-6 MPa. [259,260] At 260 C the steam pressure is 4.5 MPa and at 275 C it is 6 MPa. At such operating conditions the C to CH3OH conversion ratio is limited (< 20%). [259] Also dimethylether (DME) can be produced in one step using similar catalysts at somewhat modified conditions. In order to achieve acceptable yields recycling could be used as well has a higher pressure at the catalyst. This will, however, reduce the current density in the SOEC stack which will result in a higher H2 and CO cost as seen in Figure 4-28 and Figure 4-33. It may also be possible to pressurize only the exhaust gasses from the SOEC stack in order to keep the high SOEC performance. Experiments with pressurised SOEC operation are limited in the literature. A project in pressurised SOEC operation will be initiated at Ris National Laboratory during 2007.
Methane

Pipe lines and storage facilities for natural gas are widely established in Denmark. In this perspective, it is interesting to produce methane from renewable energy sources to feed in to the natural gas pipe lines. Ni -based catalysts are typically used for methanation. Typical operating conditions are 190 C 450 C, typically at lower pressures than methanol catalyst operating pressures. Hence it should be possible to reach an acceptable yield in one cycle - even without pressure differentiation in the heat exchanger.
Hydrogen

Heat producing power plants such as nuclear and geothermal can be used for steam generation and pressurizing (super heated steam) which avoid the need for pumps. [209,227,235,261,262] The Danish natural gas pipe lines are capable of handling 5% - 10% hydrogen without significant changes. [263]Large storage facilities for natural gas, such as the ones in Ll. Thorup and Stenlille, are already established in Denmark.

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4.5.4.2 Carbon Dioxide Neutral Synthetic Fuels by Capture of CO2 from the Atmosphere
Within recent years a huge rise in the number of abnormal weather events has occurred. Meteorologists agree that these exceptional conditions are signs of a Global Climate Change. Scientists agree that the most likely cause of the changes is manmade emissions of the so-called greenhouse gases that trap heat in the earth's atmosphere. Although there are six major groups of gases that contribute to the global climate change, the most common is carbon dioxide (CO2). For this reason there are much research in sequestration of CO2 from power plants and other point sources for storage and removal of CO2. As mentioned in the perspectives for SOEC (this report), synthesis gas and thereby synthetic fuel can be produced by electrolysis of CO2 in fuel cells. CO2 capture from air and recycling or reuse of CO2 from energy systems would therefore be an attractive alternative to storage of CO2 in the underground and would provide CO2 neutral synthetic hydrocarbon fuels. Capture of CO2 for recycling can be achieved by absorption processes employing amines or carbonates as absorbents. The regeneration includes heating of the absorbent; therefore reduction of the energy requirement becomes a determining factor for realizing CO2 recycling. From the viewpoint of energy saving in regeneration of the absorbent, carbonates are preferable to amine solutions, since the energy requirement for CO2 removal in the carbonate process is about half of that of the amine process [264]. However the rate for CO2 absorption and desorption with carbonates is slow, but for CO2 capture/recycling from air, the absorption and desorption rate may not be a determining factor. A carbon neutral energy cycle utilizing CO2 capture from air with calcium carbonate in combination with a fuel cell is sketched in Figure 4-34.
CO2 into the atmosphere Power H2O into the atmosphere

Ca(OH)2 + CO2 (from air) CaCO3 + H2O

Consumption: Fuel cell or Otto engine

Transport CaO + H2O Ca(OH)2 + heat CaCO3 + heat CaO + CO2 CO2 H2O Electricity from wind or water Production of fuel: Catalysis: CH4 or CH3OH

Electrolysis: CO + H2

Figure 4-34. Carbon dioxide neutral energy cycle utilizing CO2 capture from air with calcium carbonate in combination with a Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells (SOEC).

Mineral carbonation has been recognized as a potentially promising route for permanent and safe storage of carbon dioxide, and thereby also a promising route for recycling of CO2. Both the potentially large CO2 sequestration capacity and the

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exothermic nature of the carbonation reactions involved have contributed to an increasing amount of research on mineral carbonation in recent years [265,266]. A number of different carbonation process has been reported, of which aqueous mineral carbonation route was selected as the most promising in a recent review [265]. Calcium carbonate is a well known CO2 absorbent [265]. Also the less known magnesium carbonate can be employed. As previous mentioned the required energy for regeneration is a determining factor, therefore equilibrium and reaction enthalpies of CO2 recycling utilising either calcium carbonate (CaCO3, limestone), magnesium carbonate (MgCO3, magnesite) and a mixture of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate (CaMgCO3, dolomite), of which calcium carbonate and calcium magnesium carbonate are abundant present in nature, are calculated in order to evaluate the feasibility to recycle carbon dioxide. All equilibrium and reaction enthalpies were calculated using Factsage 5.5 Software [267]and are all calculated at 1 atmosphere pressure.
Calcium Carbonate Cycle

Calcium carbonate can be formed by passing carbon dioxide into a solution of calcium hydroxide (Ksp for Ca ( OH)2 4.68106 at 298K): Ca(OH)2 + CO2 CaCO3 + H2O (30)

Reaction (30) is exothermic at all temperatures as can be seen from Figure 4-35. Calcium carbonate is poorly soluble in water. Consequently calcium carbonate precipitates out of the solution, driving the reaction towards the formation of CaCO3.
50

0 Energy (KJ) T S -50 G -100 H -150 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 Temperature (C)

Figure 4-35. Thermodynamics of calcium hydroxide and carbon dioxide mixing.

Solid calcium carbonate releases carbon dioxide on heating, to form calcium oxide according to equation (31). Calcium carbonate exists in equilibrium with calcium oxide and carbon dioxide at any temperature. At room temperature the equilibrium favours calcium carbonate, because the equilibrium CO2 pressure is only a small fraction of the partial CO2 pressure in air. At temperatures above 550 C the CO2 pressure begins to exceed the partial pressure of CO2 in air as shown in Figure 4-36A. Thermodynamically the CO2 release (negative Gibbs free energy for reaction (31) occurs above 880 C as can be seen from Figure 4-36B. CaCO3 CaO + CO2 (31) 97

9 8

100 80 60 40 Energy (KJ) 20 0 -20 -40 -60 -80 -100 0 100 200
CO2 release CO2 uptake

Gibbs free energy

Vapour pressure CO2

7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 500 600 700 Temperature (C) 800 900

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

Temperature (C)

Figure 4-36. Thermodynamics of carbon dioxide release/uptake from calcium carbonate.

The formed calcium oxide reacts vigorously with water to form calcium hydroxide, as in the following equation: CaO + H2O Ca(OH)2 (32)

100 80 60 40 Energy (KJ) 20 0 -20 -40 -60 -80 -100 0 100 200
H2O uptake H2O release

Gibbs free energy

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

Temperature (C)

Figure 4-37. Thermodynamics of water release/uptake from calcium oxide.

The combination of reaction (30) to (32) closes the CO2/carbonate cycle for CO2 capture/recycling as shown in Figure 4-34 and Figure 4-38. From Figure 4-38 it can be seen that a temperature interval between 500 and 880 C is needed to perform CO2 capture/recycling with calcium carbonate.

98

100
1 Composition (mole) CaO

Gibbs free energy CaCO3 CaO + CO2

80 60 40 Energy (KJ) 20 0 -20 -40 -60 -80

Ca(OH)2 CaCO3 Ca(OH)2 CaO + H 2O

CO2 CaCO3 CaO + CO2 CaCO3

CaO + H 2O Ca(OH)2

Recycling temperature

0 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 Temperature (C)

-100 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 Temperature (C)

900

1000

Figure 4-38. Composition upon heating after mixing Ca(OH)2 + 0.50 CO2 + H2O (initially all CO2 is consumed to form CaCO3).

As mentioned above also magnesium carbonate can be used for CO2 capture/recycling as will be described below.
Magnesium Carbonate

As for calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate can be formed by passing carbon dioxide into a solution of its hydroxide. Because magnesium carbonate is only slightly soluble in water, magnesium carbonate precipitates out of the solution: Mg(OH)2 + CO2 MgCO3 + H2O (33)

Magnesium carbonate releases carbon dioxide on heating, to form magnesium oxide according to equation (34). Compared to calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide releases CO2 at a much lover temperature. The Gibbs free energy for the release of CO2 becomes negative at 400 C as can be seen from Figure 4-39. Further it can be seen from Figure 4-41 that starting at around 275 C, MgCO3 releases CO2 because of the equilibrium with CO2 in air. MgCO3 MgO + CO2 (34)

100 80 60 40 Energy (KJ) 20 0 -20 -40 -60 -80 -100 0 100 200
CO2 release CO2 uptake

Gibbs free energy

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

Temperature (C)

Figure 4-39. Carbon dioxide release from magnesium carbonate as a function of temperature.

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At temperatures below 270 C, magnesium oxide reacts with water to form magnesium hydroxide. Above 270 C water is released forming magnesium oxide from magnesium hydroxide: MgO + H2O Mg(OH)2 (35)

100 80 60 40 Energy (KJ) 20 0 -20 -40 -60 -80 -100 0 100 200

Gibbs free energy

H2O release H2O uptake

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

Temperature (C)

Figure 4-40. Formation of magnesium hydroxide from magnesium oxide and water.

As a consequence of the lower reaction temperature for both reaction (34) and (35), a carbonate cycle operating with magnesium carbonate can be operated at temperature cycles between 250 C and 400 C as shown in Figure 4-41.
100
1 Composition (mole) MgO
Gibbs free energy MgO + H2O Mg(OH)2

80 60 40 Energy (KJ) 20 0 -20 -40 -60 -80

Recycling temperature

MgCO3 Mg(OH)2 Mg(OH)2 MgO + H2O 0 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 Temperature (C) Mg(CO3)2 MgO + CO2

CO2

MgCO3 MgO + CO2

Mg(OH)2 900 1000

-100 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 Temperature (C)

Figure 4-41. Composition upon heating after mixing Mg(OH)2 + 0.25 CO2 + H2O(initially all CO2 is consumed to form MgCO3).

Calcium Magnesium Carbonate Cycle

In nature magnesium carbonate is found as calcium magnesium carbonate (Dolomite, CaMg(CO3)2. The CO2 release upon heating of solid calcium magnesium carbonate occurs in two steps corresponding to the decomposition of MgCO3 or CaCO3 as shown in Figure 4-42:

100

CO2

Composition (mole)

CaMg(CO3)2

CaCO3 CO2, MgO

MgO CaO CaCO3 CaO + CO2

CaMg(CO3)2 MgO + CO2 + CaCO3

0 0 100 200 300 400

MgCO3, CaO 500 600 700 800

CaCO3 900 1000

Temperature (C)

Figure 4-42. Composition upon heating after mixing Mg(OH)2 + Ca(OH)2 and 2 CO2 (initially all CO2 is consumed to form CaMg(CO3)2)

Also the reaction between the oxide and water also occurs in two steps corresponding to the reaction with either MgO or CaO:
1 Composition (mole) Mg(OH)2, Ca(OH)2 MgO MgO, CaO

Mg(OH)2 MgO + H2O

Ca(OH)2 CaO + H2O

0 0

MgO, CaO 100 200

CaO, Mg(OH2) 300 400 500 600 700 800

Ca(OH)2 900 1000

Temperature (C)

Figure 4-43. Formation of calcium magnesium hydroxide from calcium oxide, magnesium oxide and water.

As a consequence of the lower reaction temperature for CO2 release from magnesium carbonate and the lower reaction temperature for the decomposition of magnesium hydroxide to magnesium oxide, a carbonate cycle with calcium magnesium carbonate can be operated between 250 C and 400 C utilizing magnesium carbonate only. Since only half of the mineral is active, this would result in a higher amount of minerals needed to be transported, and more rock would have to be mined. More work on the kinetic of the adsorption and desorption processes as well as the practical process implementation is necessary to estimate the economic aspects regarding CO2 recycling for the production of CO2 neutral synthetic fuels. Energy consumption by capture of carbon dioxide The energy consumption by capture of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere where the CO2 concentration currently is 360 ppm is only 5.6% compared to the combustion of carbon to give one mol CO2. Having in mind that the free energy of the capture (in the case of full reversibility) is the same as GMix of CO2 of 1 atm with atmospheric air, the calculation was done as follows:

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1 mol CO 2 = 3.6 10-4 atm (PCO2 in atmosphere)

x mol Air = 1 - 3.6 10-4 atm

mol CO 2 = PCO2 V

V=

R T n CO2 R T

PCO2 n CO2 R T PCO2 = n Air R T PAir

PAir V R T n R T V = Air PAir mol Air =

V= V=

n Air 1 = -4 3.6 10 1 - 3.6 10-4 1 - 3.6 10-4 n Air = 3.6 10-4 1 - 3.6 10-4 n Total = n CO2 + n Air = 1 + 3.6 10-4 G Mix = n Total R T x CO2 ln CO2 + x Air ln Air

1 - 3.6 10-4 -4 -4 -4 -4 G Mix = 1 + 8.3145 298.15 3.6 10 ln ( 3.6 10 ) + (1 3.6 10 ) ln (1 3.6 10 ) -4 3.6 10 G Mix = - 22.1353 KJ molCO2

The energy by combustion of carbon to give one mol CO2:

C + O 2 CO 2

H f CO2 = -393.51 KJ

molCO2

G Mix for release of CO2 is 5.6% of H for carbon combustion.

4.5.5 Conclusions on SOEC

It is found that, given the assumptions in Table 2, H2 and CO can be produced at attractive production costs, using SOECs. The H2 production cost was found to be 71 US/kg equivalent to 30 $/barrel crude oil using the HHV. The CO production cost was found to be 5.6 US/kg equivalent to 34 $/barrel crude oil using the HHV. If heat for steam generation can be provided from a waste heat source, the production price can be lowered even further. Electrolysis on a H2O/CO2 mixture will produce synthesis gas which can be catalyzed into various types of synthetic fuels. In such a synthetic fuel production, some reduction in the production price may be achieved by utilizing the heat from the catalysis reaction for steam generation. The main part of the production cost for both H2 and CO is the electricity cost. For lifetimes above 3-4 years the H2 production price starts to become insensitive to the life time. For the CO production price this is about 6 years. The production cost was found to be lowest at ETn. Here the efficiency from electricity to fuel was found to be 93% for CO production and 96% for H2 production. These figures do not include heat loss to the surroundings.

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In a combined CO2/H2O electrolysis operation, an additive of Cu to the Ni/YSZ support layer may enhance the CO production due to a WGSR in the support layer combined with electrolysis in the electrode. Recycling of CO2 for carbon dioxide neutral synthetic fuels can be performed with calcium carbonate, which is a well-known CO2 absorbent and has been suggested for CO2 sequestration. Thermodynamic equilibrium calculations show on the other hand that CO2 capture/recycling using magnesium carbonate can be operated at approximately 400 C lower than the 800 C for calcium carbonate. Magnesium carbonate is abundant in nature as calcium magnesium carbonate. A carbonate cycle for CO2 capture with calcium magnesium carbonate can be operated between 250 C and 400 C utilising magnesium carbonate only. Using only magnesium carbonate from calcium magnesium carbonate, higher amount of minerals would have to be mined and transported. A carbonate cycle for CO2 capture/recycling is definitively technically feasible, but the practical and economic aspects regarding calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate or calcium magnesium carbonate have to be assessed to determine the most suitable absorbent for CO2 capture/recycling. In total, these findings seem quite interesting for a further investigation in hydrogen and synthesis gas production by use SOEC technology. Some main subjects to be addressed in the future R&D are: 1) precise identification of the mechanism of the cell degradation, 2) developments of highly durable cells, 3) further feasibility studies through cell and stack testing, 4) construction of pressurized cell and stack test facilities, 5) construction of prototype electrolyzer systems, 6) more detailed technical and economical modelling should be done parallel to the experimental work.

4.5.6 Appendix 1. CCASR calculation

The following input parameters are used to calculate CCASR: The cell voltage U, the current through the cell I, the cell area A of one cell in the stack and the H2 and H2O gas flow to the Ni/YSZ electrode of the cell and the O2 and/or air flow to the LSM/YSZ electrode. Since the stoichiometry and number of electrons involved in the H2O and CO2 electrolysis reaction is identical, the calculation presented below is also valid for CO2 electrolysis except that the thermo-neutral voltage ETn is different for CO2 electrolysis. The cell is assumed to be divided into 10 slaps. The resistance of each slap is taken to be 10 times the resistance of the whole cell. The gas flow is assumed to be a co-flow. 1 The CCASR is found by iteration. First the Nernst voltage of the H2/H2O inlet gas vs. O2 is calculated. This is labelled ENernst-1. An initial guess on CCASR is labelled CCASR(itt.1). The current density through the first slap of the cell is now estimated as
ENernst-1 U = i1 CCASR(itt.1)
1

(36)

In the cell test setup the gas flow is a cross flow. In these experiments the LSM/YSZ gas flow is pure O2. This means that the oxygen partial pressure remain constant throughout the whole electrode. Hence it does not affect the calculations whether a cross flow or a co-flow calculation is used.

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A i1 from the H2 flow 10 2 F rate at the first slap. The H2O flow rate at the second slap is found by adding A i1 to the flow rate at the first slap. ENernst-2 is found for the second slap using the 10 2 F flow rates at the second slap as partial pressures in the Nernst equation and i2 is found by substituting ENernst-2 into (36). The current through the cell is found as The H2 flow rate to the second slap is found by subtracting

(i1 + i2 + .. + i10 )A = I (itt.1) 10 CCASR(itt.2) is found as CCASR(itt.2) = CCASR(itt.1) I I (itt.1) N

(37)

(38)

N is a large positive constant used to assure that the iteration converge towards a stable value. CCASR(itt.2) is inserted into (36) and step (36) to (38) is repeated. The iteration stops when I(itt.n)=I. CCASR is then given as CCASR(itt.n).

4.5.7 Appendix 2. Economy calculation

The calculation method is based on the data in Table 4-3. The calculation describes steam electrolysis but since the stoichiometry and number of electrons involved in the H2O and the CO2 electrolysis reaction are identical, the calculation is also valid for CO2 electrolysis with only minor changes. The differences are specified whenever they occur. Using the cell temperature given in Table 4-3, the average CCASR is found from the third order polynomial shown in Figure 4-23. This value is used as CCASR(itt.1) in equation (36) and given the cell voltage, inlet gas concentrations, operation pressure and temperature from Table 4-3 we can find i1. An initial guess on the H2O flow rate to one cell is applied to find i2i10 and the total current I as in equation (37). Subsequently the H2O flow rate is found by iteration using equation (39).
I ( itt.1) 0.95 & 2 F X H2O ( itt.1) & = X H2O ( itt.1) + N

& X H2O ( itt.2 )

(39)

& where X H2O ( itt.1) is the initial guess on the H2O flow rate to one cell given in mole

per second. N is a large constant to assure the iteration converge to a stable value. The

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& & iteration stops when X H2O ( itt.( n + 1) ) = X H2O ( itt. n ) and the H2O utilization is 95%.

The current through the cell now given as I ( itt.n ) , also found from equation (39). The electric power consumption P for the SOEC stack is given as

P = I U y

(40)

where y is the number of cells in the stack. The regular outgoing for electricity is found as YElectricity = P Electricity price Operating activity The regular outgoing for heat from the heat reservoir is found as (41)

& ( H (T ) H (T ) ) X ( itt. n ) y Heat price Operating activity

o Gas
H.r.

YHeat reservoir =

o Gas

(42)

H2O

o o where ( H Gas (TH.r. ) H Gas (Tr ) ) is the enthalpy change, i.e. the energy, required to

heat the H2O from room temperature to the temperature of the heat reservoir. Note that since the heat reservoir temperature is 110 C and the operating pressure is 0.1 MPa, the H2O evaporates at the heat reservoir and the heat required for the evaporation is provided by the heat reservoir. The energy loss rate in the heat exchanger calculated as
o o & Inlet & Outlet H.E. loss rate = 5% ( H Gas (T ) H Gas (TH.r. ) ) ( X Gas + X Gas ) Gas

(43)

o o where H Gas (T ) H Gas (TH.r. ) is the energy required to heat the gas specie from the & Inlet & Outlet heat reservoir temperature to the stack operation temperature. X Gas and X Gas is the flow rates of the gas specie in question in the inlet and outlet part of the heat exchanger respectively. In order to avoid the cell from cooling down, the H.E. loss rate has to be compensated by heat at the stack operating temperature. This can be done by an electric heater or (preferably) by keeping the cell voltage slightly higher than the thermo-neutral voltage. The regular outgoing to the loss in the heat exchanger is calculated as

YHeat exhanger = H.E. loss rate Electricity price Operating activity The regular outgoing to demineralised water is given as
& Inlet YDemineralized water = X H2O Demineralised water cost Operating activity

(44)

(45)

105

For CO2 electrolysis the expenses for water is substituted with the CO2 cost specified in Table 4-3. Finally the regular outgoing to pay off the loan is calculated as an annuity loan based on the investment, the interest rate and life time. . The total regular outgoing is given as YTotal = YElectricity + YHeat reservoir + YHeat exchanger + YDemineralized water + YLoan The H2 production cost finally is given as (46)

H 2 production cost =

YTotal 2F YTotal = H 2 production rate -I

(47)

106

5 Commercially available electrolyzers

The technology and sizes of commercially available electrolysers vary greatly. In this chapter we will only focus on technology that can be useful to the electrical power grid.

5.1 Performance review

An electrolyzer is an on-site hydrogen generating plant based on water electrolysis. Electrolysis takes place when an electric current flows through an electrolyte (in this case, water) from anode to cathode. Water molecules are spontaneously split into hydrogen and oxygen gases of high purity, and the resulting gases can then be purified, compressed, stored or distributed according to the requirements. Three types of electrolyzers can be considered for the production of hydrogen by use of wind power for grid balancing and production of fuels for transport. Solid Oxide Electrolyzers (SOE), Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyzer (PEME) and Alkaline Electrolyzers (AE). The figure below shows where the three technologies are located on the road from research through development to commercial products.

Research - Product development - Commercial products Solid Oxide Electrolyses Proton Exchange electrolyses Alkaline Electrolyses Figure 5-1. State of development of the different electrolyzer types.

107

Solid Oxide Electrolysers (SOE)

Figure 5-2. Solid oxide stack.

SOE is based on a high temperature technology used in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells developed by RIS. The technology offers the possibility of very high efficiencies of more than 90 %. SOE is in the very beginning of the research phase. Extremely high current densities have been showed in the laboratory, but there is still much work to be done in order to develop a prototype. Because SOE is not expected to be commercial viable within the next 3 year this technology will not be included in the market survey.
Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser (PEME)

Figure 5-3. Two PEM electrolyzer units.

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PEME is commercial in sizes op to 44 kW. They deliver hydrogen of high purity and are suitable for pressurizing. Their power density is quite high and therefore useful where space is limited and expensive. As for PEM fuel cells the lifetime is still not sufficient for all applications. More than 40,000 hours is not to be expected. The most common applications are in labs, submarines and spacecrafts. The efficiency is in the lower end and the price in the high end. Because of the relative small maximum capacity at present, the limited lifetime and the high price, the PEME will not be included in this market survey.
Alkaline Electrolysers (AE)

Figure 5-4. Large scale alkaline electrolyzers

Production of hydrogen by alkaline electrolysers is an about 100 year old technology used in the chemical and metallurgic industry and for production of fertilizer in the form of ammonia NH3. The energetic efficiency on converting electricity to hydrogen is reasonably high on modern plants: between 80 and 90%. The lifetime is as high as 20 years, with a major service check every 6 years.
Electrolyser marked, Western and Eastern The relative high prices of electrolysers are a barrier for the use of low price wind power for hydrogen production. It is also a significant barrier for the application of hydrogen as an energy carrier in the transport sector and as fuel for micro CHP systems, applications there are a growing interest for in EU, Japan and USA. Therefore there is no doubt there will be an incising market for electrolysers if cheap electrolysers can be brought to the market.

109

In Eastern Europe, Poland, Ukraine and especially Russia there are through out the years developed knowledge, experience and expertise concerning electrolyser plants among other to be used in furnaces and ovens in the metal industry and for cooling of power plant generators. However, these companies are not at the moment able to deliver plants to the western market because of the requirements to guaranties, CE-marking, service, etc.

5.1.1 Western marked

Five major western suppliers of alkaline electrolysers have been identified as: Hydro in Norway Hydrogenics in Belgium Iht in Switzerland AccaGen in Switzerland Erre Due in Italy represented by H2Indistrial in Denmark

The plants can be divided in two groups. Atmospheric and pressurized plants. The atmospheric plant operates at atmospheric pressure of one bar and the pressurized plants operate at pressures from 4 to 30 bar depending of the make.
Table 5-1. Manufacturers of AEC stacks and their power ratings. Western Supplier Hydro Hydrogenics Iht AccaGen Erre Due Atmospheric plants 200 to 2000 kW Pressure plants 50 to 300 kW 60 to 240 kW 500 to 3400 kW 7 to 500 kW 100 to 200 kW

14 to 1500 kW

Below is showed the filled in questionnaire from the five manufactures. It has not been possible to get all information from all manufactures.

110

5.1.1.1 Norsk Hydro Electrolysers AS

Heddalsveien 11 P.O. Box 44 N-3671 Notodden Norway Phone+47 35 09 39 99 Fax+47 35 01 44 04 E-mail [email protected]
Personal contacts: Marketing and Sales Director Mr. Roy Grelland [email protected]

R&D Manager, Hydro Technology Ventures Dag vrebo Managing Director, Hydro Electrolysers Knut Harg

Figure 5-5. Alkaline Electrolyzers from Norsk Hydro.

111

Table 5-2. Norsk Hydro electrolyzers (ambient pressure) Specifications of Electrolysers (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Max power Efficiency Number of cells DC Voltage DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Hydro 1 Bar

name /model
5010 50 205 4.1 31

name /model
5020 150 615 4.1 92

name /model
5030 300 1230 4.1 183

name /model
5040 377 1546 4.1 230

Nm3/h kW Kwh / Nm3 H2 V Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % hydrogen Kg m l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years

4000 1 20 - 100 12 minutes 99.9

4000 1 20 - 100

4000

4000 1 20 - 100 12 minutes 99,9

Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation of electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price

1 20 - 100 12 12 minutes minutes 99,9 99,9

80

80

80

80

Euro USD DKK

112

Table 5-3. Norsk Hydro electrolyzers (elevated pressure)

na Hydr me mo Specifications of o Electrolysers 12 Bar del (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Nm3/h 10 Max power Efficiency Number of cells DC Voltage DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation of electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price kW 48 Kwh / Nm3 H2 4.8 V Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % hydrog en Kg m l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years 60

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

na me mo del

12 58

16 77 4.8

20 96 4.8

24 30 40 50 60 65 115 144 192 240 288 312 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.8

4.8 72

104 128 160 192 136 168 200 216 820 820 760 760 760 760 150 150 150 150 0 0 0 0

12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 50 50 50 - 50 - 50 - 50 - 50 - 50 - 50 - 50 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 99. 99. 99. 9 9 9 99. 9 99. 9 99. 9 99. 9 99. 9 99. 9 99. 9

Euro USD DKK

113

5.1.1.2 Hydrogenics Europe N.V

Nijverheidsstraat 48c, B-2260 Oevel, Belgium T: +32(0)14.46.21.10 F: +32(0)14.46.21.11 [email protected]
Personal contact: Christian Machens [email protected]

Figure 5-6. A Hydrogenics electrolyzer.

114

Table 5-4. Hydrogenics electrolyzers. Hydrog enics Specifications of 10 / 25 Bar Electrolysers (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Nm3/h Max power kW Kwh / Efficiency Nm3 H2 Number of cells DC Voltage V

nam e /mo del 100 0/ 100 100 45 0/ 0/ 15 30 15 30 45 63 126 189 4.2 4.2 4.2 nam e /mo del nam e /mo del

400 0/ 200 60 90 120 50 100 150 200 252 378 504 210 420 630 840 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2

nam e /mo del 100 0/ 60

nam e /mo del 100 0/ 90

nam e /mo del 100 0/ 120

nam e /mo del 400 0/ 50

nam e /mo del 400 0/ 100

nam e /mo del 400 0/ 150

nam e /mo del

DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature

Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % hydroge n Kg m of l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years

100 100 100 100 100 100 400 400 400 400 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 10 /25 25 100 99. 9 260 0

99.9 99.9 99.9 99.9 99.9 99.9 99.9 99. 99. 9 9

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

30

Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price

1000 Euro USD 1000 DKK

531 331 2.4 83 3.98 3

1.05 5 7.91 3

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5.1.1.3 IHT
Clos-Donroux C. P. 228 1870 Monthey 1 Switzerland T: +41 24 471 92 57 F: +41 24 471 92 64 [email protected] www.iht.ch
Personal Contact: Ernest Burkhalter [email protected]

Figure 5-7. Large scale alkaline electrolyzer from IHT.

Figure 5-8. Alkaline electrolyzer from IHT.

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Table 5-5. IHT electrolyzers (elevated pressure) Specifications of Electrolysers Iht, 32 Bar (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Nm3/h

name /model
Lurgi system 110 to 760 473 to 3268 4.3

name /model

name /model

Max power Efficiency Number of cells DC Voltage DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation of electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price

kW Kwh / Nm3 H2 V Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % hydrogen Kg m l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years

32 25-100 99.9

Euro USD DKK

117

Table 5-6. IHT electrolyzers (abiment pressure). Specifications of Electrolysers IHT 1 Bar (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Nm3/h

name /model
Bamag system 3 to 330 11.7 to 1287 3.9 10 to 100

name /model

name /model

Max power Efficiency Number of cells DC Voltage DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation of electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price

kW Kwh / Nm3 H2 V Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % hydrogen Kg m l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years

1 25 to 100 99.8

Euro USD DKK

118

5.1.1.4 AccaGen SA,

Via San Mamete, CH-6805 Mezzovico Switzerland T +41 91 940 21 11, F +41 91 940 21 04, [email protected] www.accagen.com
Personal contact: R. Dall'Ara, CEO [email protected]

Figure 5-9. Electrolyzer unit from AccaGen.

119

Table 5-7. AccaGen electrolyzers Specifications of Electrolysers (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Max power

AccaGen name name name 6 / 10 / 30 /mod /mod /mod el el el Bar AGE AGE AGE 1.0 2.5 5 Nm3/h 1 kW 4.8 Kwh / 4.8 Nm3 H2 V Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % 99.8 hydrogen Kg m l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years 2.5 11.8 4.7 5 23.2 4.6

name /mod el AGE 10 10 45 4.5

name name name /mod /mod /mod el el el

AGE 20 20 89 AGE 50 50 222 AGE 100 100 440

Efficiency Number of cells DC Voltage DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation of electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price

4.5

4.5

4.4

6/10/ 6/10/ 6/10/ 6/10/ 6/10/ 6/10/ 6/10/ 30 30 30 30 30 30 30

99.8

99.8

99.8 99.8 99.8 99.8

Euro USD DKK

120

5.1.1.5 Erre Due

Agent: H2Industrial ApS Tjelevej 42 7400 Herning Denmark T +45 9627 5607 F +45 9714 0899 www.h2industrial..com
Personal contact: Jesper Nissen Boisen [email protected]

Figure 5-10. Erre Due electrolyzers. Here distributed by H2Industrial.

121

Table 5-8. Erre Due electrolyzers Specifications of Electrolysers (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling pumps, power supply, etc.) Max capacity Max power Efficiency Number of cells DC Voltage DC Current Current density Outlet Pressure Operation range Operation speed Purity Weight Diameter Circulation of electrolyte KOH Lifetime Operation temperature Maintenance costs Service time Anode material Cathode material Diaphragm material Price Price Price

Erre Due / H2Industrial

name /model
32.00 21.33 108 5.1

name /model
64.00 42.63 213 5.0

name /model

Nm3/h kW Kwh / Nm3 H2 V Amp A /cm2 Bar from x % to y% dA / dt % hydrogen Kg m l/min % Years Celsius USD/ year Years

4 99.8 2700

4 99.8

Euro USD DKK

1,000,000

1,450,000

122

5.1.2 Eastern marked

During the search for electrolyser companies contacts to several scientists, businessmen and also with Commercial Consulates Offices in Russia and Ukraine were made. The most interesting company Uralhimmash has provided the most detailed information. The answering of the form was followed up by a visit to the factory in Elaterinbourg, Ural, Rusia. Similarly to the Western market of electrolysers, the market in East Europe seems to be dominated by only few reputable companies - located in Russia. Based on our business trip to Ekaterinburg it became likely that Uralkhimmash has a monopoly position in the industrial alkaline electrolyzers production in Russia and former USSR countries.

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5.1.2.1 Uralhimmash
JSC Uralkhimmash Khibinogorsky per. 33 620010 Ekaterinburg Russia
Contact person: Andrey Arkadyevich Director of the direction of the electrolysers T: (343) 221-61-55 E: [email protected] www.uralhimmash.ru

Figure 5-11. Electrolyzer system from Uralkhimmash.

124

Table 5-9. Uralhimmash electrolyzers

name name name name Uralhi name name /model /model /model /model name Specifications of m/model Electrolysers mash /model /model (no external equipment, gas separator, cooling SEU SEU SEU FV FV500 pumps, power supply, etc.) SEU 4 10 20 40 250M M BEU 125, 250 Max capacity Nm3/h 4 10 20 40 250 500 625, 1 Max power kW 20, 6 50 102, 5 205 1 520 3 150 250 Kwh / Nm3 H2 5, 15 5 5 5 5, 3 5, 3 5 Efficiency 3100, Number of cells 30 25 50 100 82 166 6100 DC Voltage V 75 60 115 230 450 850 230 DC Current Amp 330 1 000 1 000 1 000 8 000 8 000 1 000 A Current density /cm2 Outlet Pressure Bar 10 10 10 10 1 1 10 Operation range Operation speed dA / dt % hydrog en 99 99, 7 99, 7 99, 7 99, 5 99, 5 99, 7 Purity 7453 3, 10136 7435 6 Weight Kg 1290 3390 4720 7435 59420 0 1,61, 1,61, Diameter m 0,46 0,89 0,89 0,89 9 9 0,89 Circulation of electrolyte l/min 300400 g/litre KOH % Lifetime Years 20 20 20 20 210 210 20 Operation temperature Celsius 85 85 85 85 85 85 85 USD/ Maintenance costs year Service time Years 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Anode material Fe Fe Fe Fe Fe Fe Fe Cathode material Ni Ni Ni Ni Ni Ni Ni Diaphragm material Price Euro Price USD Price DKK

125

5.1.3 Prices, Efficiency, CE-Marking, Safety

Prices Very large plants have been installed for production of fertilizer in countries with cheap hydropower, op to more than 100 MW in capacity. A third common application in Eastern Europe and Russia is the use of hydrogen for cooling of power plant generators from on site electrolysers. Though the technology is well known and mature the price is too high for energy applications. The reason is the market is limited and there are just a few suppliers to cover the world marked. A rough estimate is a magnitude of 10 MW pr. years. When in the feature electrolysers will be used in grids with a large amount of wind power 10 MW at least, will be the magnitude of a single plant necessary to balance just one wind farm. Today the marked is characterized by few plants sold annually at a high prices for industrial use, contrary to what we will see in the future where a large number of plants for energy use will be sold at a very low price.

If we look at the development of prices of wind turbines we will get a good picture of what will happened when energy plants is produced in large numbers. During the past 20 years the prices of wind power is reduced to 20% of what it was 20 years ago. There is no reason not to believe that we will see the same development for electrolyser plants. Electrolysers have the reputation of being very expensive. It is true but often when the price pr. kW of a specific electrolyser is mentioned the size of the plant is not given. The specific price of electrolysers (EURO / kW) is strongly dependent of the size of the plant. The price analysis below shows it very clearly. It can be seen that the price per kW installed capacity vary with a factor of 10 dependent of the size of the plant.

126

Prices of Alcaline Electrolysers

10000 9000 8000 7000 Euro / kW 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 0 500 1.000 1.500 kW 1 Bar, HYDRO 4 Bar, H2Industrial 16 Bar, HYDRO 6 Bar, AccaGen 10 Bar, Hydrogenics 1 Bar ELT 2.000 2.500 3.000

Figure 5-12. Prices of electrolyzers as a function of power rating.

The prices are collected over the last 5 years from year 2000 and therefore not consistent. Electrolyzer plants are often tailor-made and directly price comparison between the different manufactures is therefore not possible. Anyhow, the graphic shows clearly that in order to obtain relatively cheap electrolyzers, they have to be as large as possible and not smaller then about 1 MW. The company H2industrial (Erre Due) seems to disturb the picture, but because they only make small plants and with a low efficiency (69%) it is not so important for this study.
Efficiency The efficiency of an electrolyser is defined as the ratio of the higher heat value (HHV) of the hydrogen produced and the DC electricity consumption of the electrolyser. Simple electrodes made of mild steel and coated with nickel have an efficiency of about 68% and the most advanced experimental electrodes manufactured by vacuum plasma spray technique have reached efficiencies as good as 90%. The commercial electrolyzers have an electricity consumption of 4.1 to 4.8 kWh per normal m3 produced. Using the HHV of 3.5 kWh/m3 hydrogen, the efficiencies can be calculated to between 85 and 73%. Below is showed the efficiency of the electrodes from Iht, Norsk Hydro, Hydrogenics, Uralhimmash and the VPS electrodes from DLR, Stuttgart, Germany. The electrolyser from Aarhus University, HIH is also shoved. It is a lab model with stainless steel electrodes, which will be converted with Vacuum Plasma Spray electrodes from DLR.

127

HIH

Uralhimmash Iht. Norsk Hydro Hydrogenics

Figure 5-13. A plot of efficiency of the electrodes from Iht, Norsk Hydro, Hydrogenics, Uralhimmash and the VPS electrodes from DLR, Stuttgart, Germany.

The HHV is always used when calculating the efficiency of electrolysers whereas the lover heat value (LHV) of 2.9 kWh/m3 is used when the efficiency of fuel cells is calculated. The reason is that the fuel cell is consuming hydrogen and therefore the calculated numerically efficiency will be higher when the LHV is used.
Safety Safety is an important issue for electrolyser plants and will be handled by the CEmarking. Especially two directives will secure the necessary safety level regarding the hydrogen as a potential explosive pressurized gas. It is:

1) DIRECTIVE 94/9/EC concerning equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. 2) DIRECTIVE 97/23/EC concerning pressure equipment Two other directives will be involved in the approval of the power supply and the control system. That is:

128

1) Council Directive 73/23/EEC relating to electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits. 2) Council Directive 89/336/EEC relating to electromagnetic compatibility

5.2 Cost
5.2.1 Hydrogen as an energy raw material
The question is not how many years the remaining oil and gas will last, but when will the supply not be able to meet the demand. According to the European Hydrogen Association (se graphics below) this is going to happen within the next 10 to 20 years. But before then, there will be a need for alternative fuels for domestic heat and power as well as for transport. Due to the shortage of supply the prices of fossil fuels will go up and the alternatives will become competitive.

Figure 5-14.

Compressed hydrogen distributed via pipelines can be used for supply of fuel cells integrated in CHP plants (Combined Heat and Power). Plant oil and synthetic fuels made from biomass is an evident option for the transport sector, however, the resources will not be sufficient to meet the demand.

129

Hydrogen as a compressed gas can be used in special designed vehicles as a supplement to ethanol used in conventional cars, but there are also other possibilities. Hydrogen can be used as a new energy raw material in the production of different synthetic fuels such as methanol, methane and ammonia. In the fermentation process of biomass to ethanol one third of the carbon is lost in the form of CO2. Since carbon from biomass will be short in supply this source of carbon as CO2 must be utilized, which is possible by reacting with hydrogen. Methanol or methane can be produced in this way. Ammonia can be used as a fuel, but it is also used for NOx reduction on coal and biomass-fired power plants.

Figure 5-15. Hydrogen from water electrolyses used for production of synthetic fuels.

5.2.2 Electricity costs

Hydrogen is produced from water and electricity. The water consumption is about one litre per normal cubic metre (Nm3) of hydrogen and the electricity required is approx 4kWh per Nm3. This means that the water price is minimal compared to the price of the electricity. This is true even though the water needs to be purified in order to remove traces of salts and organic residues that will otherwise accumulate in the electrolyzer. Electricity is traded at hour-to-hour prices on the spot market and the prices vary from 0 to 15 Euro Cent per kWh. It is therefore obvious to use electricity for hydrogen production during the cheap hours. On Figure 5-16 the prices of electricity at the West Danish spot market is showed for every hour in 2006.

130

Figure 5-16. The price of electricity at the West Danish spot market hourly through 2006.

If all hourly prices are put in order starting with the lowest price and the highest price last, we get a very clear impression of the price frequency. From Figure 5-17 it can be seen that there is only few hours with prices below DKK 0,20/ kWh and above DKK 0,50/ kWh. 83% of the time the prices are between these two values.

131

Figure 5-17. The price of electricity at the West Danish spot market through 2006 arranged.

Figure 5-18 shows the average price of the electricity if an electrolyser is operated a certain number of hours in 2006, and the operator has purchased the cheapest electricity on the market. It can be seen that when the electrolyser is operated nonstop throughout the year the average price was DKK 0,33/kWh. If the electrolyser was in operation 50% of the time, corresponding to 4380 hours, then the price was DKK 0,25/ kWh. A strategy to obtain the cheapest electricity could be to buy in the off-peak period from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The number of operating hours will then be 8760 x (9/24) = 3285 hours and the average price would be DKK 0,23.

132

Figure 5-18. The average price of electricity at the West Danish spot market if an electrolyzer is operated a varied number of hours through 2006.

5.2.3 Investment costs

From the Figure 5-19, it can be seen that the relative price of electrolysers is strongly dependent on the size. The larger the plants are the smaller prices per kW installed. Electrolysers are manufactured in modules up to 1 to 3MW. Therefore the price curve becomes almost flat after this size. For smaller plants price reduction is obtained by up-scaling the electrolyser stack instead of using more modules. Therefore, the price elasticity is much higher for the smaller plants.

133

Prices of Alcaline Electrolysers

10000 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 0 500 1.000 1.500 kW 1 Bar, HYDRO 4 Bar, H2Industrial 16 Bar, HYDRO 6 Bar, AccaGen 10 Bar, Hydrogenics 1 Bar ELT 2.000 2.500 3.000

Figure 5-19. Prices of the different electrolyzers reviewed in chapter 5 as a function of production rate capability.

5.2.4 Depreciation
The investment costs for an electrolyser plant in MW size is between EUR 500 and 1500 per kW. This price, say 700 Euro/kW for a 2 MW plant must be depreciated over the hours of operation. Therefore, the more hours the plant is in operation per year the less depreciation per hour of operation. This is due to the fact that there are a maximum number of years for the depreciation of the plant. For example 10 years. As an example the depreciation of the largest electrolyser from Figure 5-19 is showed in Figure 5-20 as a function of number of operating hours per year and a lifetime of 10 years.

Euro / kW

134

Figure 5-20. Cost of electrolyzer pr kWh produced assuming a 10 year depreciation. The calculation is based on the largest electrolyzer from Figure 5-19 and as a function of operating hours.

5.2.5 Optimum operation of electrolyser plants

The price of the hydrogen produced is mainly calculated from the sum of the price of electricity and the depreciation. Since the average price of electricity increases by the number of hours of operation per year and the depreciation decreases by the number of operating hours, there will be an optimum number of operating hours per year. Figure 5-21 shows that the lowest hydrogen price will be obtained if the plant is operated approx 50% of the hours through out the year. These hours are most likely to be during the night, because the lower consumption from the industry and the private homes will cause the electricity price on the spot market to go down. However, the curve is quite flat at operating time up to 100%, so if it serves a purpose to increase the production the additional cost is only marginal. This might well be desired when the demand for fuel is growing in the transport sector.

135

Figure 5-21. The cost of hydrogen produced by electrolysis based on the assumptions above. Key figures are listed in Table 5-10.

All applied input data for the analysis is showed in Table 5-10.
Table 5-10. Input data for the analysis of production cost.

Installed capacity MW Size of plant Nm3/h: Price of plant, DKK.: Efficiency, kwh/Nm3 DC: Burning value for hydrogen kWh/Nm3 Installed capacity MW Years of operation: Operation costs, DKK/kWh: Maintenance costs, DKK/kWh: Efficiency of hydrogen production

2877 620 12,000,000 4.64 3.5 2877 10 0.01 0.01 0.75

5.2.6 Utilization of oxygen and heat.

The electrolyser also produces heat and oxygen. 1m3 of oxygen is made for each 2m3 of hydrogen. In this example the hydrogen is produced at an efficiency of 3.5/4.64 = 0.75. The remaining 25% is converted to heat. If it is assumed that 90% of this heat can be utilized for district heating then the economy for utilizing oxygen and excess heat from the electrolyser can be calculated as shown in Figure 5-22.

136

Figure 5-22. The cost of hydrogen produced by electrolysis based on the assumptions above taking the value of produced oxygen and heat into account. Key figures are listed in Table 5-10 And Table 5-11.

The applied data is showed in Table 5-11.

Table 5-11. Key figures for calculation of the value of the produced oxygen and heat.

Heat production MW/MW Price of heat DKK/MWh Sale of heat DKK/MWh electricity consumption Oxygen production Nm3/MWh electricity consumption Price of oxygen DKK/m3 Sale of oxygen DKK/MWh

0,22 236 52 108 0,5 54

Assuming 100% electrical efficiency The influence on the price of hydrogen, if the efficiency of the electrolyser is increased from the quite low 75% used in the example to the maximum possible 100% possible in the future, is shown in Figure 5-23. Only the efficiency of the electrolyser is changed, all other input data are the same as in previous calculations above. This shows that the price of hydrogen per kWh is reduced by 10% when the efficiency of the electrolyser is raised from 75% to 100%. This is not an argument against research and development of more efficient electrolysers, but a very strong indication that there is absolutely no reason to await more efficient electrolysers to start business development in this very promising energy technology.

137

Figure 5-23. Calculated cost of hydrogen like in Figure 5-23 with the only difference that 100% electrical efficiency is assumed.

5.2.7 Excess of wind power

It is often claimed that excess of wind power can be used for low-cost hydrogen production. This is not correct. There is no excess of power in the grid. All the electricity produced is consumed, but at different prices. This analysis shows that the numbers of hours with very low prices are quite few and far from enough to give a reasonable depreciation of the plant and price of the hydrogen produced.

5.2.8 An estimate of the European market for electrolysers

A European market for electrolysers for demonstration projects has already been established. According to EU official figures, the Commission and the national and regional funds have invested EUR 160 million a year in hydrogen related research , development and demonstration in the period from 2002 to 2006. This figure is corresponding to the statements from the director of the Energy Research, European Commission, Pablo Fernandes-Ruiz, who expects the figure to be doubled in 2007.

138

Figure 5-24. The distribution of the European investments. From Energy Research European Commission.

From Figure 5-24 it can be seen that 15% is spent on hydrogen production. If we estimate that one third of the expense is used on electrolyser systems the potential market can be calculated as: 160 x 2 x 1/3 x 0,15 million Euro = 16 million Euro annually equivalent to DKK 120 million.

5.3 Visits to suppliers of electrolysers

When asking manufacturers of electrolysers for information, we quickly realised that asking questions without having a project was a very bad idea. The electrolyser companies are relatively small, and they do not have the resources to answer questions from students, research institutions and others looking into a coming hydrogen society in a proper way. For this reason we decided to focus on electrolysers to fit into production of synthetic fuel. When looking for commercially available electrolysers > 100Nm3 H2/hour the only choice is the alkaline electrolyser. The idea was to contact and visit some of the leading commercial suppliers of electrolyser equipment, to examine units in operation, to look into reference lists, to talk with maintenance people, and to get our own impression of what an electrolyser is. The overall agenda for the meetings was: We are an Electricity Utility Company in Denmark looking into solutions on producing synthetic fuel for the transport sector based on biomass and wind power. We are contacting you about the electrolysis part to get more knowledge about the possibilities now and the possibilities in future. 139

Efficiency Pressure Technology

For a pilot plant we are looking for an amount of 125Nm3 H2/hour. For a full-scale project we need 50000Nm3 H2/hour. The H2 will be a component for the methanol production. This process will run at an estimated pressure of minimum 70 bar, which means that a high-pressure H2 production will be an advantage. We hope to talk to you to discuss the actual needs and to get information about what is going on in your electrolyser business.
We visited the following companies:

Norsk Hydro, Nottodden, Norway IHT (former Lurgi), Geneva, Switzerland Acca-gen, Lugarno, Switzerland Hydrogenics, Antwerp, Belgium

The detailed agenda for the visits was according to the questions and minutes of meeting below.

5.3.1 General questions and answers.

The electrolyser is foreseen to stabilise the electrical grid and make it possible to connect more wind power to the grid. For this reason, the electrolyser duty will be in the area of 4000-5000 full load hours a year and the electrolyser will often be disconnected more times daily for short or long periods; up to 2000 hours a year.
Will that be an acceptable way of running an electrolyser? o As long as the electrolyser is kept hot, and the load gradients are inside the limits, it will be acceptable to the electrolyser. For pressurised electrolysers it is advised to depressurise during hours with no load. Will this way of operating the electrolysers generate more maintenance? o Some suppliers have experience from sun- and wind-powered systems and have developed special electrodes able to sustain sudden and frequently repeated current interruptions without the need for polarization maintaining current during long shutdowns.

Our plan is to start production of synthetic fuel. We expect to start up with a pilot production to get more experience. For this purpose we need an amount of 125Nm3 H2/hour, (about 625kW). For the full-scale production we need 40000-80000Nm3 H2/hour (approx 180-360MW).
What is the optimum size of an electrolyser for that purpose? o The electrolyser capacity on the market today is mainly below 200Nm3 H2/hour. Even though units close to 1000 Nm3 H2/hour are already available.

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However, this limit is not a technological one but is commercially imposed by the competition from stem reforming which is by far more economic. In the past electrolysers with capacities up to 20,000Nm3/hour have been built (100MW electrical absorption). In the future, if the demand for large quantities of clean hydrogen increases, larger electrolyser units could be built and in this way the cost would be strongly reduced. Developing electrolysers with capacities in excess of 1000Nm3/hour is just an engineering matter and not a feasibility question. A reasonable size could be 5000Nm3/hour.

Figure 5-25. The parallel and size law.

The H2 will be the main component for the synthetic fuel production; this process is running at an estimated pressure of minimum 70 bar.
What could be the optimum pressure for the electrolyser? o If the electrolysis process is carried out in a closed environment, the gas produced by water splitting will increase the pressure. For small electrolysers, the feasibility of very high-pressure electrolysers has been shown commercially. In fact devices up to 200bar have been built. From experience, however, it has been demonstrated that very high-pressure electrolysers must be limited in size in order to be price competitive compared with solutions with a low-pressure electrolyser and a gas compressor.

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Figure 5-26. Suitable electrolyser pressure as a function of sizes.

Running an electrolyser the consumption of electricity is a very important economical factor, for that reason the efficiency of the electrolyser is a very important point.
What is the efficiency of the alkaline electrolyser? o Standard electrolysers consume about 4.5 kWh/Nm3 of H2 at 100% load, but the consumption must always be compared to the current density. This value can be further improved down to 4.0 kWh/Nm3 at the expense of an increased electrolyser cost or by running at part load.

During periods with strong wind and low consumption in the grid, cheap electricity may be available.
Will it be possible to run the electrolyser at overload during these periods? o If the feed water and cooling capacities are available, 20% overload will normally not be a problem, but at a lower efficiency.

The electrolyser efficiency is a split between H2 production and the cooling effect. If the process temperature in the electrolyser is raised, the cooling water could be utilised for district heating or for evaporation of water in the ethanol process.
What is the normal process temperature for a catalytic electrolyser? o The normal operating temperature for commercial alkaline electrolysers is in the range from 70C to 90C. Will it be possible to raise the temperature? o It would be convenient to raise the temperature because it will increase the efficiency of the electrolyser. The limiting factor is the corrosion. For a traditional alkaline electrolyser it is not possible to raise the temperature without a dramatic change of design and material selection.

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The electrolyser is foreseen to stabilise the electrical grid and absorb the excess of wind energy. The electrolyser must be able to follow the fluctuation from wind power which may be very rapid. What is the range of operation?
How is the reliability/maintenance for an electrolyser? o Electrolysers are generally designed for more then 20 years of operation. Only a short stop a year for maintenance is recommended. Some manufacturers recommend a large overhaul every five to seven years. There are units which have been in operation for more than 20 years without the cells having been opened. Overhaul can be done on site, or the stack may be sent back to the factory. Does the electrolyser contain asbestos? o In the past asbestos has been widely used as diaphragm in the electrolyser. Today it is mostly phased out and substituted by other materials, but it is still used by some manufacturers. Which metals are contained in the electrolyser? o The alkaline electrolyser is mainly made of carbon steel, nickel-plate carbon steel and stainless steel, and it does not contain precious metals. Will the electrolyser be able to run at part load? o The electrolyser is basically able to run a load from 0 to 100%. At which load is the electrolyser able to produce the guaranteed purity of gas? The manufacturers state a range between 5-100% and 25-100% load, dependent of the design regarding to stray currents. How quickly is it possible to change the load of the electrolyser? o If the electrolyser is on operation temperature and pressurised, the manufacturers state a load ramping time (0% to 100% load) from 20 sec to 10 minutes. The challenge seems mainly to be to maintain constant thermal conditions in the electrolyser. Quick ramping demands advanced temperature control of the cooling circuit. Which codes and standards are followed for the production and approval of the electrolyser? o The manufacturers comply with relevant EU directives such as ATEX (94/9/CE) and PED (97/23 CE).

ATEX: What will the classified area look like for an electrolyser? o The hazardous zone may be dependent on the ventilation, which can be either natural or forced. For large installations we have only seen natural ventilation, where the top of the roof has been open for output. Forced ventilation has been chosen for turnkey container installations. For the room containing the electrolyser and small extensions outside the building, the classification will, as a minimum be zone 2 IIC T1 according to EN 60079-10. The explosion-proof components will be selected as EEX d IIC T1 or EEX ia IIC T1.

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What kind of weather protection is needed for the electrolyser? o Only light buildings are needed to protect against frost. When the electrolyser is in operation, no external heating is needed.

Will control and safety be independent for the electrolyser? o As standard, the electrolyser will be equipped with a PLC system for monitoring and control. For safety functions the electrolyser will be equipped with an independent, hardwired or SIL-classified safety system able to execute a tripping of the unit. The selection of safety system will be based on a risk assessment. How is the load of the electrolyser controlled? o The load of the electrolyser is controlled by the current which is proportional to the load.

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5.3.2 Norsk Hydro minutes of meeting.

Time, place: 8-9 June 2005, Rjukan and Notodden Participants: Elsam: NH, KHI, NTO Norsk Hydro: Andres Cloumann (AC, Sales Manager Hydro Electrolysers), Dag vrebo (D, Development Manager, Hydro Technology Ventures), Knut Harg (KH, Managing Director, Hydro Electrolysers) Visit to production plant in Rjukan At a hydrogen peroxide factory in Rjukan, Akzo Nobel has erected four (atmospheric) electrolysis modules (of slightly different technological generations. Three of the modules have a capacity of 500Nm3 H2/hour, one module has a capacity of 300Nm3/hour. The following information was given: The length of the large modules is 11-12 metres, and they have a diameter of approx 2 metres. The modules were mounted on skids. Max 230 cells per frame/skid. The electrolysers perform approx 6,500 operating hours a year. In general, overhaul of the cell stacks is performed every seven years. During an overhaul, the stack is separated on the spot and electrodes/membranes and worn plates are replaced with reconditioned plates. In connection with an overhaul, each stack is taken out of operation for approx one week. The routine maintenance requirement of the electrolyser is minimal. Standard maintenance is required for lye circulating pumps, etc. It is not at all necessary to perform daily service inspections remote monitoring of the systems is possible. Feed water is supplied from a RO plant. In the plant in question, the gas pressure was supplied by a water ring compressor, which also purified the gas of the remaining lye, which was subsequently re-circulated. The requirement for addition of new KOH is very small, but the water quality is very important especially the carbonate content to the speed with which impurities are formed in the lye cycle and the consequential efficiency reduction. Gas quality is checked by measuring the oxygen content in the H2 flue gas and the hydrogen content in the O2 flue gas. O2 in H2 below 0.2% (during the visit, the concentrations recorded on the operating plant were 0.11-0.14%) H2 in O2 below 0.5% (during the visit, the concentration recorded on the operating plant was 0.443 %). The guaranteed control range of the plant is 20-100% load. The maximum and minimum functions of the electrolyser have not been fully tested, because in general it is not necessary to operate the plant to the limits absolute max/overload and minimum load. The gas production follows almost immediately once the power is connected, but there is a lag time in the system before the gas pressure starts building up and gas production is initiated. This is mitigated by inserting a gas bell for compensation purposes. During brief production outages the gas pressure in the electrolyser may be maintained to ensure that the gas production starts as soon as the power is connected.

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The electrolyser can be started and produce in the load range almost instantaneously provided that the temperature of the electrolyte is maintained at approx 80C. The optimum operating temperature is 80C (caustic breaking, generally in pipes and pumps, not in the electrolyser). The temperature is controlled by cooling the lye. Gas analysis outlet branches are installed for every 20 cells may be used for troubleshooting in case of reduced gas quality. ATEX. The production hall with electrolyser is classified as zone 2 gas group IIC T1. The production hall has natural air ventilation. Air inlets are installed along the walls and outlet is installed in the roof ridge in the entire length of the building. When the electrolysers are being kept warm or when they are operating, the heat generated will promote the natural ventilation. Visit at Norsk Hydro in Notodden, where the electrolysers are assembled and reconditioned. Norsk Hydros development of electrolysers is also located here. The electrodes are made of a nickel plate steel supporting plate. On one side, the cathode is mounted, on the other side of the supporting plate, the anode is mounted. Cathode and anode are both perforated steel plates with an (unknown) surface coating. The surface coating contributes to the high efficiency. Membrane. Separates anode and cathode. Must be able to stand the aggressive chemical environment, be permeable to ions/electrons and have a certain minimum gas tightness. Is typically made of asbestos Norsk Hydro, however, makes their membrane of a different material (unknown). It looks like woven cloth maybe a type of flour polymer. Efficiency. Comment from Andres: 4.1kWh/Nm3 can be accomplished by everyone. You must consider the current density to assess the actual efficiency. What is more relevant though is that the electrolyser is able to increase production by 25% at an additional consumption of 0.25kWh/Nm3. Electrolysers are generally supplied as turn key supplies including transformer, electric switchboards, C&I and safety system. Pressurised electrolysers: Hydro is currently developing a pressurised electrolyser (30 bar). The test plant is expected to be completed by end 2005, and is subsequently ready to be long-term tested at a customer, e.g. in a pilot plant for production of synfuel at Elsam (Proposal: Hydro owns the plant, we operate it, pay for the electricity and own the gasses produced. Data is divided). The design of the test plant was very compact, and furthermore, the response times on the gas side were good due to the low dead volume in pipes and pressure tank. The control range is 10-100%. Hydro expects future plants for large-scale production to be pressurised. The construction costs of a pressurised electrolyser will be higher in each case, the decision between pressurised/atmospheric electrolysis will depend on the price of the compressor.

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It takes 8-10 months from the order is placed to manufacture a demonstration plant (~500kW).

5.3.3 AccaGen, minutes of meeting

Time, place: 29 September 2005, Via San Mamete (CH) Participants: Elsam: KHI, NTO AccaGen: Damian Gamma (Sales and Marketing), Roberto Dall`Ara (Director)

Three years ago, the company AccaGen was divested from the company Casale, which among other things designs/supplies NH3 factories. The divestment was a step towards enhancing focus on the electrolysis business, which compared to Casales other business activities only constituted a very small part. However, AccaGen is still able to benefit from Casales resources and know-how. The company produces alkaline pressurised electrolysers, generally in sizes from 0.1100Nm3/h H2. The company employs 10 people. Production of components is handled by sub-suppliers. Assembly and testing is handled at the factory. The company participates in a number of research activities in cooperation with various universities. AccaGen only manufactures pressurised electrolysers for minor plants up to 200 bar. For large plants > 50Nm3/h H2, the maximum pressure will be approx 30 bar. In large plants, the compressor price constitutes a relatively smaller part of the plant costs, which is why large pressurised plants are less interesting. The company does not think that the production of units with a capacity of up to 5000Nm3/h H2 will constitute technical problems, and the company sees a market for plants of this size. However, it requires more plants of this size for the market to have a reasonable volume. In relation to price, the following key figures are used in connection with expansion of capacity. If the capacity is increased by a factor 10 by increasing the cell size, the plant price will increase by a factor 6. The same expansion of units connected in parallel will increase the plant price by a factor 9. The typical industrial electrolyser will have a power consumption of 4.64.8kWh/Nm3 H2. In applications where it is deemed expedient, the efficiency may be increased to 4.0kWh/Nm3 H2. AccaGen has supplied electrolysers for stand-alone wind turbines and solar cell installations, and has used these unconventional operating situations, which occur when the sun hides behind a cloud or when the wind slows down for a period of time, in the design of its control system. These are operating conditions which do not normally occur in a plant operating at continuous load. AccaGen were very eager to emphasise its DCS, because the use of electronic solutions makes it possible to build more compact plants, as a number of balancing tanks can be left out. The design philosophy was: Compact and easy-to-use.

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AccaGen observes the relevant European directives and standards, e.g. the tank directive and ATEX, etc. In case of co-production of O2 the plant shall be prepared for this from the beginning. The O2 pressure will typically be 5 mbar below the H2 pressure. AccaGen does not use asbestos products (for membranes). AccaGens membrane is sturdy, but according to AccaGen it may be slightly less effective than Hydros membrane. AccaGen prescribes overhauls to be performed every 3-5 years. The design of the electrolyser in which the cell rings are directly pressurised facilitates service and maintenance to a certain degree. IPR may be a problem area which might prevent us from performing large overhauls ourselves. Operating range 5-100% without problems. AccaGen has developed an electrode coating which is resistant to extensive standstill. This requirement emerged in connection with supply for stand-alone wind turbines/solar cell installations. Frequent on/off operation results in corrosion problems because the potential on the electrodes change. Around 50% of the production price of the total plant may be attributed to the electrodes. The normal temperature of the electrolyser is 80C. AccaGen has no experience operating the electrolysers at higher temperatures, but AccaGen is willing to look into the possibilities. It was emphasised that the expected operating life of the plants is at least 30 years at 80C (provides a 20-year guarantee with a possibility for a further 20-year extension). Supplementary water must have a conductivity of less than 5S. Delivery time: 6-12 months. Electrolysers are generally supplied as turn key supplies including transformer, electric switchboards, C&I and safety system. They may also be supplied in a container. The plant is designed for automatic operation, 8100 h/year for the isolated systems.

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5.3.4 IHT minutes of meeting.

Time, place: Participants: IHT: 30 October 2006 Geneva/ Monthey (CH) Ernest Burkhalter, [email protected] Hansruedi Arnold, [email protected] Riland Helfer, [email protected] Armando Hermosilla [email protected] Lars Yde Niels Tophj

HIRC: DONG Energy:

IHT produces, maintains and sells atmospheric electrolysers (Bamag) from 3 to 330Nm3/h and pressurised electrolysers (Lurgi) at 32 bat from 110 to 760Nm3. The latter are the largest units in the market and at the same time they have the highest discharge pressure. The plants were developed in the 1950s by Professor Zdanski and no fundamental changes have been made since then, except for the control system, the safety system and the power supply. All plants are produced in the same place (ClosDonroux CP 228, CH 1870 Monthey 1); but under different names and owners: Lanzola, Lurgi, Giovandola, GTec and now IHT. Ernest Burkhalter is director and member of the board.
Technical questions and answers Dynamic operation of the pressurised electrolysers, which are of a type that may become interesting in connection with large electrolysis installations, is possible. It takes about 10 minutes for a heated de-pressurised electrolyser to reach operating pressure, after which the electrolyser may in principle be controlled freely between 0 and 100%. In practice, however, the requirement for a constant temperature in the electrolyser means that a ramp is inserted. By optimising the cooling circuit, the ramp time may be reduced to approx 1-2 minutes. The load range of the electrolyser is stated as 25-100%, at lower loads problems may arise in connection with the purity of the gas in relation to the data stated. The electrolyser can be shut down for up to 4-6 hours without losing pressure or temperature and without causing reduced operating life. As long as pressure and temperature are maintained, load may be imposed on the electrolyser. At a power density of 200mA/cm2 and a cell voltage of 1.9V, the plant consumes 4.61kWh/Nm3 H2 at full load. At part load, the consumption for each Nm3 H2 produced is reduced and the efficiency is increased. This means that it is better to reduce the load on all electrolysers instead of shutting a part of the electrolysers down. The load curve was not stated. The plants power draw on the power grid and thus its hydrogen production is controlled via a PC-based DCS. The control is divided into a regular PLC part, where the operation, trend curves, alarm management, etc of the plant are handled, and an independent SIL (Safety Integrity Level) classified safety management system. Power control is carried out as current control by means of controlled rectifiers that rectifies the grid AC to DC and thereby supplying the electrolysers.

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Gas qualities were stated as:

Hydrogen: 99.8-99.9% Oxygen: 99.3 n-99.6% O2 in H2: 0.1-0.2% vol. H2 in O2: 0.4-0.7% vol. KOH in the hydrogen gas: max 0.1mg KOH/Nm3: H2O in the hydrogen gas: 1-2mg/Nm3 The gasses are free of: CO, CO2, CH4, S, Cl. Feed water: 0.85 litre/Nm3 Cooling water: 40 litre/Nm3 at a temperature difference of 20C. The operating temperature is generally 84C, but as a test, a non-asbestos electrolyser has operated at a temperature of approx 95C for a short period of time. IHT has not tried to raise the temperature even further, but they were willing to consider the possibility. The diaphragms of the plant are made of 5mm asbestos. They are working on using an alternative material based on nickel oxide. With this diaphragm, it is possible to obtain a 12%-increase in the gas production with the same power consumption. This is due to the fact that the diaphragm is thinner and thus the distance between the electrodes is reduced. However, the impact on the operating life is unclear. The lifetime of asbestos is more than 25 years. The electrolysers mainly consist of nickel plate soft steel. There is possibly a bit of molybdenum or other metal on the surface of the cathodes. Metals, which may be in short supply in future, are as such not used. The diameter is 1.6m. 139 electrodes are stacked into one unit, and the largest electrolysers with an output of 760Nm3/h and a consumption of 3.5MW consist of four units. One unit weighs approx 15 tonnes. IHT are not planning on developing larger plants, because all parts for the electrolyser are manufactured on special-purpose machinery, which is only able to handle electrodes etc with a diameter up to 1.6m. Electrodes and the bipolar plates have a service life of 15 to 20 years, after which the plant is disassembled and the nickel is renewed. The service life of the asbestos diaphragm is unknown. If the electrolyser requires an overhaul, it is shipped unit-wise (139 cells) to the factory in Geneva. An overhaul is expected to take 2-3 weeks plus time for transport. The plants may be supplied as turnkey projects in accordance with applicable national standards. The plant is distributed in three separate rooms; one for the electrolyser, one for the power supply, and one room for the DCS and safety systems. The electrolyser room is classified as Eex zone 2. The instrumentation was designed as an intrinsically safe installation, pump engines were designed with increased safety and valve actuators were designed with pneumatic actuators.

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The building was designed for natural air ventilation with ventilation outlets at the highest point of the building along the entire length of the building thus eliminating the risk of local gas pockets.

Figure 5-27. Electrolyzer building with roof ventilation.

The operating voltage is 540V on a 3.5MW unit. There is a common plus in the centre and minus at each end. This means that electrically speaking the electrolyser is made of two units connected in parallel. Each unit thus consume 3240A. The plant at DJEVA in Monthey had a water-cooled transformer. It was a requirement from the local utility company that filters were installed for the fifth, seventh and the eleventh harmonics.

Figure 5-28. Filters.

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The mechanical design of the stack The electrodes are made as a woven net of approx 1.5mm thick threads. The horizontal threads are completely straight while the vertical threads are woven around the horizontal threads. This design makes the grid very compact, because the vertical threads may be placed so close to each other that they touch. In this way a large surface area of the electrodes is obtained. The anode, i.e. the oxygen electrode is a nickel plate with 60m. The cathode (the hydrogen electrode) also has an electrochemical coating of nickel and probably zinc. Subsequently, the zinc is removed with alkali, after which the cathode is activated. This results in a steep increase of the specific surface area. The electrodes are mounted very close to the diaphragm in a so-called zero gab structure. The gas produced is led to the back of the electrodes and does thus not reduce the conductivity between the electrodes. An egg carton-shaped separator keeps the electrodes connected to the diaphragm and at the same time, it functions as cell separator and provides room for the gasses to rise and be led into the gas ducts at the top of the cell stack. Separators and diaphragms are installed in steel rings which can subsequently be stacked with seals in between. The electrodes are placed loosely between the separators and the diaphragms. 139 cells are combined to one unit, and four units are combined between two end plates with a thickness of approx 200mm to one electrolyser stack. The power density of the electrolyser may be calculated as max power consumption divided by the volume of the electrolyser stack. With a diameter of 1.6m, a length of 10m and a power output of 3.5MW this is: 170kW/m3. Wages, materials and capacity It was stated that approx 50% of the costs are costs of materials. This is due to the large increase in the prices of iron and nickel in recent years. The production capacity is approx 3.5MW/plant/month corresponding to approx 40MW annually.

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Figure 5-29. Electrolysers from IHT of 3MW each.

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5.3.5 Hydrogenics minutes of meeting.

Time, place: Participants: Hydrogenics: HIRC: DONG Energy: 23 November 2006, Orvel, Belgium Michael Wenske Lars Yde Niels Tophj

Hydrogenics manufactures, maintains and sells pressurised electrolysers. The plants are made of modules with a capacity of 15Nm3/h and may be supplied in sizes up to 60Nm3/h and for a pressure of 10 bar on the hydrogen side and 8 bar on the oxygen side. A few years ago, Hydrogenics bought Stuart, who in 2003 had bought Vanenborre. Stuart was founded in 1948 and with the purchase of Vandenborre the product range was extended to comprising pressurised electrolysers. Therefore, the technology used is the Vandenborre technology, the so-called IMET concept (Inorganic Membrane Electrolyses Technology, marketed in 1985), which is now marketed by Hydrogenics. The technology was originally developed by Michael Wenske and his father based on know-how from chloride production by means of alkali electrolysis. Hydrogenics are developing 6 bar PEM electrolysers. However, these are not commercially available yet. The cell voltage of the alkali plants was specified as: 1.75V at 360mA/cm2 1.85V at 440mA/cm2 The power consumption was specified at 4.2-4.3kWh/Nm3 at 440mA/ cm2. This is an impressingly high current density compared to IHT and Norsk Hydro, who have a current density of 200mA/cm2 at 1.9V and 1.8V, respectively. The tot al power consumption, including loss in transformer and rectifier as well as deoxo-drier consumption, is 4.5-4.8kWh/Nm3. If the hydrogen must be compressed, an additional 0.5-0.6kWh/Nm3 is consumed. With deoxo-drier, the hydrogen purity is 99.9998%. The plants are supplied as container plants; the so-called plug and play solutions for fully automatic operation with the possibility of remote control and monitoring. The philosophy is that the principles of the plant must be as simple and reliable to use as hydrogen in a bottle. When the plant is set to standby, the pressure is maintained; but the temperature is not. The plant will warm up again, when the production is resumed. The dynamic range when the plant is in operation goes from 20-100%. The hydrogen purity is 99.9% at 100% load. It is not the electrolyser that sets the limit of the control speed; it is the power electronics. At 20% load, the oxygen content of the hydrogen is approx 1% corresponding to 25% LEL (Lower Explosive Level). If the LEL exceeds 25%, the plant is stopped. The choice to already stop the plant at 25% LEL is due to

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the fact that the oxygen content in case of an imbalance of the pressure between the oxygen and the hydrogen side may develop very quickly. It is thus necessary to stop the plant, due to the response time of the safety system. The service life of the plants is more than 20 years at continuous operation. No long-term experiences have been made with dynamic operation. Temperature variations are the main cause of reduced service life, therefore it is important that the plant is not cooled when set to standby. The operating temperature is 75C. This low temperature is due to the frames in which the diaphragms are installed and which at the same time functions as seals for the bipolar plates being made of a plastic material. According to Michael Wenske, an operating temperature of 120C is not possible due to corrosion. The dew point is -60C for hydrogen as well as for oxygen (5ppm) and the requirement for feed water is 5S/cm, which is obtained by reverse osmosis and ion exchange. The oxygen electrodes as well as the hydrogen electrodes are made of activated nickel grid. The plants may be installed in non-classified rooms. You only need to establish a ventilation outlet to fresh air in the container housing the plant. The container is classified as zone 2. The plants cannot be installed outdoors, because the feed water might ice up. This means that the container must be heated, if the plant is to be set up outdoors. The plant has separate DCS and safety system. The DCS is PLC-based, and in case of an emergency, the safety system is able to shut down the plant to depressurised state. The price of electrolysers has been reduced by 50% over the past ten years. This is due to the development of the container solution where the plants can be assembled at the factory and thus only need to be connected to water and electricity as well as to the customers hydrogen and possibly oxygen supply at the site. The price range for Hydrogenics plants is around DKK 27,000/kW, which is relatively high, but the high price range is due to the fact that Hydrogenics plants are minor plants of max 250kW. Michael Wenske estimated that for atmospheric MW plants, the price would be reduced to DKK 4,500/kW. Michael Wenske estimated that the total global electrolyser market or rather the global electrolyser production capacity would be around 4000MW a year. This is surprising, considering that IHT has an annual production capacity of 40MW. Hydrogenics is experiencing an increasing demand for electrolysers on the industrial market and in the energy sector. The company has approx 200 employees. Michael Wenske is leaving Hydrogenics to start his own consultancy and project development company within electrolysers for industrial and energy purposes. He is going to cooperate with different manufacturers of electrolysers, including Hydrogenics and a German company, ELT, who wishes to manufacture non-asbestos LURGI plants. IHT, Switzerland, has the production capacity and ELT has the know-how, but no production facilities. Their production is going to be based solely on sub-suppliers. They have developed a non-asbestos diaphragm, but they lack investment capital in the range of 1 million Euro. Today, the company only handles repair and maintenance of LURGI plants.

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6 Technical foresight
It is a common opinion that water electrolysis is an available and mature technology, which is not wide spread because it is too expensive compared to steam reforming of hydro carbons. As a consequence, further development has not been as high priority as for instance fuel cells. Electrolyzers have indeed been available on truly commercial terms and the market penetration had indeed been rather insignificant. However, most technologies do continue developing, not despite commercial success, but because commercial success. Cars and electronics are good examples of this. In the introduction to this report the necessity of water electrolysis in the energy system it is argued for, and if this holds, there will be a strong competition among manufacturers and developers of the technology in a quite near future. Consequently, further development of the electrolyzer technology will be crucial. The awareness if this is growing and more research groups can be expected to join the race for the best technology. In Denmark the authorities have been somewhat reluctant to initiate research on water electrolysis in order not to spread the limited resources over too much. Fuel cell research and development has already been supported extensively for many years. However, bearing that in mind, electrolysis development is not very different from fuel cell development and the research groups already involved in fuel cell research have the ideal starting point for getting involved in electrolysis (as a simplification, by just changing the direction of the current). The electrochemistry is overall the same, although some materials problems like corrosion will be different. All together research and development in water electrolysis will most likely increase in countries with tradition for electrochemical activities, especially fuel cells. Denmark with its full-grown fuel cell R&D community will also be part of that, and the process has already started on different levels. Ris, DTU has for some time addressed SOEC with impressive results and other groups at the universities are involved in catalyst development for electrolysis (Dept. of Physics, DTU), electrodes for alkaline electrolyzers (HIH, Aarhus Univ.) and new materials for PEMEC (Dept. Chem., DTU) to mention a few activities. Even demonstrations involving among other things electrolyzers can now be seen (Lolland).

6.1 Alkaline electrolyzer cells (AEC)

As stated in the elsewhere in the report AEC can be regarded the standard electrolyzer technology, but even tough it has been around for a century there will be plenty of room for improvement. Modern technologies for especially catalyst and electrode development have a strong potential for improving performance and lifetime. The AEC still has the advantage that it can be produced of inexpensive materials (noble metal free) and that oxygen kinetic is quite favourable in the alkaline environment. The Fuel cell counterpart to the AEC has never experienced the same success apart from niche application. This is due to the sensitivity to CO2 from the air (carbonate formation). Carbonate formation is not a problem in the electrolyzer, as air is not used for running the cell (oxygen is produced, not consumed). Apart from a gradual improvement of the present cells obvious directions for development are toward higher pressure and higher temperature. High pressure operation is already possible with in some commercial units (32 bar), but is should be

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possible to go further. Pressurization might well be eased by introduction of an alkaline membrane for replacement of the porous and pressure sensitive separator.
Elevated Temperature Alkaline electrolyser Cell (ETAEC) If the operation temperature of alkaline water electrolysis is increased from the normal 80 - 90 C to above 200 C both the performance and the electricity to hydrogen efficiency may be significantly increased. A possible obstacle for operating at elevated temperature is the lower stability of the materials at the increased temperature. Development of suitable materials for the cell is thus necessary in order to develop a large scale water electrolysis plant for operation at elevated temperatures. At present possibly suitable cell and separator materials, which are not more expensive than low temperature alkaline electrolyzer materials, have been identified, but the necessary long term (several years) stability remains to be proven. Therefore, if the potential benefit of the ETAEC should be pursued, then our recommendation is that materials test projects including accelerated testing should be initiated.

6.2 Polymer electrolyzer cells (PEMEC)

Today the PEMEC is also more or less commercial as smaller units than the AEC. Cost is high and need to be lowered. The traditional electrolyzer manufacturers have become interested in the PEMEC. For instance, Norsk Hydro has now a parallel programme for PEMEC, and others are expanding their activities in the same direction. The membrane makes the PEMEC well suited for pressurization, and like mentioned above for the AEC the benefits of higher pressure and higher temperature are also valid for PEMEC. Pressurization is to a large extent a question of engineering of the cells, but significantly higher temperatures require other materials especially for membrane materials. The high temperature PEMFC (HT-PEMFC) has had a tremendous success being developed just over the last decade. Several research groups and companies in Denmark are now involved in HT-PEMFC research and development on all levels from materials science to stacks and systems. It is an obvious idea to try to extent the activities to cover also electrolyzers based on the same membrane systems. The immediate benefits anticipated are that the excess heat produced can more easily be utilized for heating purposes or even for steam production for steam electrolysis. As shown in paragraph 5.2, when heat can be utilized the demand for a high electrical efficiency is not so strong. An interesting feature about the elevated temperature is that synthesis of synthetic fuel might be possible in cell. Recently, methane was synthesized from CO and H2 in a HT-PEM cell [268].

6.3 Solid oxide electrolyzer (SOEC)

During the last two years, very high initial performance of has been measured on SOECs produced at Ris (see paragraph 4.4.3). To the authors best knowledge, it is the best performance ever measured on an electrolysis cell. In general, the main reason for the high performance of the SOEC technology compared with other electrolysis technologies is the high temperature. Both the H2O and CO2 electrolysis 157

reactions become increasingly endothermic with temperature. This makes it possible to utilize the Joule heat produced inside the cell. The Joule heat occurs due to the ohmic losses present in all electrolysis cells. Besides, the ohmic losses in SOECs decreases with increasing temperature, meaning even better performance at high temperature. More specific, the reason for the high SOEC performance of the Ris cells is that Ris in about two decades has been among the leaders in developing the close related SOFC technology. This high performance makes it possible to establish a very efficient H2 and CO production, and electrolysis on a H2O + CO2 mixture will produce synthesis gas (H2 + CO), which can be catalyzed into various types of synthetic fuels. In such a synthetic fuel production, some reduction in the production price may be achieved by utilizing the heat from the catalysis reaction for steam generation. The cost estimations show a demand for lifetimes above 3-4 years. Today, the SOFC technology has proven lifetimes of more than 2 years, but the Ris cell does not yet meet this lifetime demand when operated in electrolyser mode. Reasonable stability over more than 1000 h has been achieved at current densities of 0.5 A/cm2 or below. Ongoing research and development addresses this issue. The glass sealings used to avoid the electrode gasses to mix with surrounding gasses is partly made of SiO2. Large amounts of Si has been detected in the Ni/YSZ electrode on tested SOECs by EDX mapping in a SEM. Test with pre-treated glass sealings show significant improvements. The recommendation is that the following main subjects should be addressed in the future R&D: 1) precise identification of the mechanism of the cell degradation, 2) developments of highly durable cells, 3) further feasibility studies through cell and stack testing, 4) construction of pressurized cell and stack test facilities, 5) construction of prototype electrolyzer systems, 6) more detailed technical and economical modelling should be done parallel to the experimental work.

6.4 Reversible fuel cells

The concept of using the same cells as both fuel cells and electrolyzer cells is very tempting. Many attempts have been made over the years to develop so called reversible or bi-functional cells, but it appears to be a challenge to match the good fuel cells and good electrolyzers with the same cell. The best starting point is probably the electrolyzer, and not the fuel cell, because the electrolyzer faces the highest voltages and thus the most challenging conditions with respect to corrosion. Standard PEMFC electrodes based on carbon materials are not durable in electrolyzer mode (at least not on the oxygen side), but there is no reason why electrolyzer electrode cannot operate in fuel cell mode. However, as a special case, the solid oxide electrolyzer cells at Ris are developed from the equivalent fuel cells, but in this case the materials are based on oxides, i.e. materials that are already oxidized in the first place. In conclusion, development of reversible fuel cells is to a large extent electrolyzer technology.

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6.5 System development

In practical application the electrolyzer stack is not standing alone. A system around needs development as well, and when water electrolysis is to be used for energy conversion this system will be different to a system for production of industrial gasses and the possible interplay with other parts of the energy system now becomes important. Questions to ask can be How can the produced oxygen be utilized? How can the excess heat (if any) be utilized? Will the produced hydrogen be used for further fuel synthesis? Do we need to store hydrogen (and oxygen) for later back conversion? Oxygen can be use din an oxy-fuel combustion process resulting in high temperatures and highly concentrated CO2 in the flue gas. This CO2 can be useful for the synthesis of synthetic fuels, as there will be no need for N2 removal. The heat produced must be at a high enough temperature for sufficient heat transport through heat exchangers. Heat transport always requires temperature differences as the driving force. Transport of heat from a 60-80C electrolyzer to a district heating net is not possible without additional electrical energy spent in a heat pump. If the temperature is 150C or more it might be practical. Synthesis of methanol, methane or other synthetic fuels might be desirable because it eases storage and later fuelling. It should be studied under which condition the electrolyzer itself or the system can facilitate this synthesis. Generally, atomic hydrogen and oxygen (or their respective ions) that appear at the electrolyzer electrodes are more reactive than the molecular hydrogen and oxygen they form before they are released as products of the electrolysis process. In case hydrogen is produced with the aim of storing, say wind energy, the oxygen produced should be stored as well. The production ratio (1:2) is of course the same as needed for the back conversion, and fuel cells operated on pore oxygen (instead of air with only 21% oxygen) performs with a higher efficiency. Finally, the Danish wind industry has for a long time been in the lead world wide. This position might be difficult to maintain in the future as large countries with cheap labour (India, China) are now taking up the competition. A decisive parameter in the global competition could be supporting technologies optionally to go with the wind turbines. When wind power is enhanced to cover a larger fraction of the energy supply in other countries that Denmark and a few more, technology to handle the produced hydrogen will be asked for.

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7 Adaptation of electrolysis in the Danish energy system

7.1 Electrolysis in the Danish power system
The occurrence in recent times of serious blackouts in America and Europe underscores the fact that additional measures are urgently needed to avoid such costly incidents. In addition integration of increasing generation capacity from renewable energy sources is a challenge to the operation of the system. More effective generation side management and demand side management services will play an important role in meeting current and future need for reliability. The need and potential for integrating energy storage or energy conversion in electrical power systems with high wind penetration is already widely recognised within electric power utilities [269]. In this context electrolysers - being both flexible electric loads, energy conversion systems and storage - can increase the flexibility of the system and be an important measure to allow the integration of additional renewable energy in the Danish power system.

7.2 The power supply of electrolysers

As mentioned in section 3.1.2, the power supply of large-scale electrolyser systems will be from a three-phase, high-voltage line. To convert this into the low-voltage dc power needed for the electrolyser cell, a combination of transformer and rectifier unit is usually used.

7.2.1 The load control

The individual electrolyser cells require voltage adjusted in the interval 80-100% as to change the current from 20% to 100% (Figure 7-1). The Maximum DC-voltage is 920 V [270].

Figure 7-1. Voltage variation as function of load current variations.

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7.2.2 Intermittent operation

An interesting system aspect of electrolytic processes for the production of hydrogen is the possibility of load management in electric grids. Like all electrochemical energy converters electrolysers can respond to load changes almost instantaneously. Highly dynamic electrolysers can thus be used for hydrogen production in the case of fluctuating production from wind power plants. In combination with a hydrogen storage tank, an electrolyser can be used for load management in the same way as a variable electricity consumer. This load management can lead to a higher utilization of wind power plants, since electrolysers can be used to balance the grid.

7.2.3 AC/DC conversion and power regulating

Electrolysers operates at direct current (DC) at about 1,6 to1,9V volt per cell. The grid is operated at 400 volt or more, alternating current (AC) at 50 Hertz (Hz). Therefore the current (electricity) from the grid have to be rectified before it can be used to power the electrolyser. The voltage level also has to be adapted to the level required by the electrolyser by a transformer. If it is required that the plant can be regulated continuously from zero to full power, a unit for this purpose is also necessary. The drawing below shows the diagram fore such a power supply.

Figure 7-2. Power supply for an alkaline electrolyser, utilizing a standard inverter for induction motors, to regulate the power consumption by the plant.

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Figure 7-3. Hydrogen from water electrolyses used for production of synthetic fuels.

7.2.4 Converters and converter configurations

Thyristor technology is normally used for electrolysis. Alternatively, rectifier can be a diode type. Such industrial power rectifiers are a well known and employed in various applications within chemical and metallurgical industries.
Rectifier transformer Rectifier transformers are designed for combination with a diode or thyristor rectifiers. The transformers may have a built-in or separate voltage regulation unit for direct output regulation of diode rectifiers, and correspondingly a power factor improvement with a thyristor rectifier. The thyristor converter requires a transformer with only coarse (stepped) voltage regulation, if any. This will often be done by a no-load tap changer (NLTC). If a diode rectifier is applied, this will require a continuous regulation of the secondary voltage of the transformer. This is done by a combination of a stepped voltage regulation, applying a coarse- or multicoarse-fine on-load tap changer (OLTC), and the fine tuning voltage regulation by applying saturable reactors on the LV side of the transformer [271]. Rectifier The basic 3-phase rectifier is the so-called 6-pulse converter. In order to improve harmonic emissions on plant electrical supply it is normal to combine two such 6pulse converters in parallel, to produce a 12-pulse converter. One converter is phase shifted by 30 degrees with respect to the other one. This can be continued to 24 pulses or higher. Most industrial rectifiers use 12 pulse converters, with a few larger systems using 24-pulse converters [272]. Two 12 pulse converters can be configured as a 24 pulse system, with one 15 degrees phase shifted from the other, or they can be a configured as a 12 pulse system, with both converters in phase. The obvious reason for employing thyristor technology in high power applications with low DC-voltage and very high DC-currents is that standard thyristor rectifiers offers the highest efficiencies compared e.g. modern IGBT technology.

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Disadvantages of thyristor rectifiers are: (a) (b) Reactive power consumption, as the power factor on the AC supply side will vary with firing angle of the thyristor bridge. Disturbances on the AC supply side in terms of frequency harmonics and commutation voltage sags

High power electrolyser system will thus need additional equipment for power factor correction by means of e.g. capacitor banks and tuned filters for suppression of critical harmonics.
Auxiliary systems High power rectifiers auxiliary equipment includes cooling system. Depending on rating, location and ambient conditions rectifier cooling can by air or water.

7.2.5 Alternative converter configurations

The above-described concepts employ so-called load-commutated rectifiers. Alternative converter technology using self-commutated semiconductors may improve the performance, not at least on the grid side. Two alternatives of AC/DC converters, PWM converters and DC choppers, are described in the following.
PWM converter applications PWM (pulse width modulated) converters using GTO thyristors or IGBT transistors have generally not been applied for high power converter systems. The technology has been widely used for motor drives and similar applications and has also been introduced for HVDC transmissions systems. One advantage of PWM converters is that by applying space vector control of the converter it is possible to control the active power (or the DC voltage) and the reactive power on the AC side independently. Two quadrant operations allowing two ways of reactive power flows may offer possibilities in terms of ancillary services to the power system as described in the following. Another advantage is the reduced low order harmonics generated on the AC supply side. High frequency harmonics with orders around multiples of the switching frequencies will, however, be generated and may need additional filtering. The most obvious drawback of PWM converters is the losses. In addition to the conduction losses PWM converters have significant switching losses, which are directly proportional to switching frequency. However, a remarkable development has been seen in the development of semiconductors in terms of power and voltage capabilities. This has been seen in the development of variable speed motor drives for industry and power applications, the employment of power electronics in wind turbines and also development of high voltage converters for distribution and transmission application.

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Based on this it could possibly be expected that the performance and capabilities of these converters would make it attractive also for high current applications like electrolysers. In addition the value of the control capabilities may eventually become higher and thus make PWM type of converters more cost effective.

DC chopper applications Systems employing a diode rectifier on the supply side and a chopper in the DC circuit are currently used e.g. in the metallic industries for e.g. dc arc furnace applications but can also be used in heavy current applications in the electrochemical industry [273], and likewise for electrolysis. Main benefits of chopper applications are fast dynamic response; high line power factor over the entire power range without power factor correction; minimal harmonic distortion of the ac power feeder without the use of harmonic filters; high system efficiencies over the total output power range; reduction in overall system size and cost. Fast dynamic response is hardly required in electrolysis systems; however, the remaining benefits may be worthwhile considering.

7.3 Grid connection and integration in the electrical power system

Integration of electrolysis can be done in various ways. Technically depending on the size of plants and the voltage level it connects to. Integration in the electricity market basically of course is to operate as a flexible load by cost effective production of Hydrogen). However the system and the market also have a demand for various ancillary services, to which electrolysis may offer its capabilities.

7.3.1 Large scale electrolysers at transmission levels

Large-scale electrolyser as e.g. envisaged by DONG Energys in the range of several hundreds of MWs will have to connect at the transmission level at 132-150 kV. Connection of large-scale electrolysers in the transmission system can mitigate transfer capacity problems in the transmission system, which occurs e.g. in periods with high wind generation. In this way significant costs of transmission line upgrades can be avoided. In addition electrolysers may offer possibilities for improving the security of the system by e.g. including them in remedial action schemes as significant load that can be disconnected. Finally, as will be discussed in the following, by applying PWM converter technology electrolysers may eventually add significantly to the reactive power and voltage control of the system.

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7.3.2 Medium and small scale electrolysers at distribution levels

Medium scale electrolysers (50 MW or less) may connect to the distribution system at voltage levels 50-60 kV or 10-20 kV. Here it is of interest to consider Energinet.dks development plans for a new network structure in Denmark. Its a concept based on a two-layer structure where the 150 kV and the 400 kV transmission levels are to be jointly planned and operated and the local grids below each 150/60 kV transformer station will constitute network cells in which monitoring and control are performed. The cell structure is illustrated in Figure 7-4.

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Figure 7-4. Cell structure in a future grid design (Energinet.dk)

Basically, the new strategy requires a new set of functional requirements to the cells for controlling the reactive power locally, controlling disconnection of production or consumption in critical situations as to enable immediate compensation of suddenly emerged imbalances. The long-term target of Energinet.dks cell structure is to prepare the power system operation with a major part of the generation in the distribution networks, not least the increased renewable energy resources. A local control structure will monitor and control the power flow. When considering the active power, a cell should be self-regulating, but not necessarily selfsufficient. Emergency conditions should be handled within the cell offering the possibility of island operation and black start. Installation of electrolysers in distribution network fits well with these plans and allows increased control of active and reactive power in the network cells. This will not the least be the case if plans for retrofitting existing on-shore wind turbines and installing new larger wind turbines. In this case the total distributed wind capacity will increase and the need for local reserves will increase if curtailments should be avoided. The electrolysers may provide significant value both as a flexible load responding to market signals, but also as a provider of ancillary services (active and reactive power control).

7.3.3 Electrolysers combined with wind generation

Several research projects have already on a lab scale investigated how electrolysers can be operated in small systems together with wind generation. For a large-scale implementation of electrolysers it is likely that they would be combined with wind power in a portfolio operated on the market by a common balance responsible party. In this context it is unimportant whether the plants have different points of common coupling (PCC) with the power system as indicated in Figure 7-5 below or they are directly interconnected to a common PCC.

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Obviously if the units are of significant ratings and located far apart, local problems of transfer capacity can arise.
Portfolio

PCC Wind farm Power System

Electrolyser

Power pool

Balance responsible party

Figure 7-5. Combination of wind generation and electrolyser in a common portfolio.

If the electrolyser should participate in reactive power or voltage control and this should be combined with the wind generation, they should be connected to same PCC. The benefit of this combination first of all is that the intermittent renewable production can be reduced. Converting peak production to hydrogen and storing it for off-peak use can increase the capacity factor and value of the renewable energy. Similarly the use of the transmission systems can be improved since it need not be designed for transfer of peak productions, which may occur in few hours. Ultimately, hydrogen production in combinations with wind can also help utilize wind energy resources in areas where new transmission lines cannot be built.

7.4 Flexible electrical load

Flexible electrical load FEL is defined as variations of consumer load on a short-term basis as response to price signals. The price signal form the market can be The price from spot market Real time prices from reserve and balance markets Individual prices or signals agreed between consumer and power producer

Apart from regular consumers, FEL also includes conversion of electricity to other energy sources. Large consumer can already now purchase electricity on the spot market and can thus adapt their consumption to the prices. In order to make the market more flexible, new forms of contracts may develop, which will make the price flexibility simpler.

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The Danish TSO estimates that the potential for price flexibility of regular consumers in Denmark is approximately 660 MW [274]. The integration of electrolysis plants of say 100-200 MW would thus add significantly to the flexibility.

7.4.1 The electricity price variations

The electricity price depends on the supply and demand in the system. As wind power enters the market at low marginal costs, the wind generation is seen to have a significant impact on the price as indicated in Figure 7-6 below.
800

700

600

Price [DKK/MWh]

500

400

300

200

100

0 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

Wind generation [MW]

Figure 7-6. Electricity prices in DK-West in 2006 dependant of wind generation. Data from Energinet.dk [275].

Looking at the daily variation of electricity prices, wind can expectedly be seen to have a major impact in low peak hours as indicated in Figure 7-7 below.

Figure 7-7. Average daily electricity price variation in 2006 at different levels of wind generation. Data from Energinet.dk [275].

Increasing wind capacity in the system will tend to give larger fluctuations in electricity prices and increase problems of power overflow when wind power can

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cover the complete load. A more flexible demand will mitigate these problems and give more stable prices.
Electricity price Supply Demand

Flexible demand Large fluktuation in prices More stable prices

Wind

MWh

Figure 7-8. Wind power influence on electricity prices with and without flexibility in demand.

7.4.2 Electrolysis as flexible load

In principle there are no technical restrictions for electrolysers to operate as a flexible load and purchase power from the spot market The value of integrating electrolysers into the system is demonstrated in the following. More or less as consequence of electricity prices depending on wind generation, net exports tend to increase with increased wind generation. This is illustrated by the duration curve of wind generation and exports for the Western Denmark put together as shown in Figure 7-9. The net exports obviously depend on other factors and the curve is an average filtered for these variations. In any case the graph indicates that a significant part of the wind generation in DK-West is exported and on the whole that the international market works.

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Wind generation and net exports from DK-West 2006

2.500 DK-Vest: Wind Net export (avaraged) 2.000

1.500

MW
1.000 500 0 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Hours

Figure 7-9. Wind generation and net exports DK-West 2006. Data from Energinet.dk [275].

However, from a local Danish power system perspective this is not necessarily an advantageous situation. Not the least because wind generation is subsidised. An increased integration of electrolysers (and other flexible loads, storage and energy conversion systems) would increase the value of the wind generation.

7.5 Ancillary services

Various definitions of ancillary services exist [276- 278]. Presently mainly generating units supply ancillary services. However, the utilisation of dump loads by means of thermal storage has been introduced.
2

Electrolysis systems may depending on type of electrolyzer and type of converter configuration offering ancillary services to the electrical power system in terms of: Primary active power/frequency control Automatic emergency power/frequency control Secondary active power control (automatic or manual reserves) Dynamic reactive power and voltage control Reactive power reserves

The possibilities of electrolysers to ad value to the system are discussed in the following. This may be relevant for stand-alone electrolysers operating in the system and market as well as electrolysers operating in a portfolio including renewable generation and/or conventional generation.

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7.6 Active power control

7.6.1 Active power control on electrolysers
The choice of electrolyser type has influence on the power control capabilities of the system. Dynamic operation requires an advanced control of the cooling system. The cooling must be controlled according to the power consumed by the electrolyser and not only by the temperature at the outlet cooling water. Standard alkaline electrolysers presently in operation are not designed for fast control. Large electrolysers like Norsk Hydro are designed for continuous operation and take approx. two hours to start-up and increase production to 100% [270]. Increased cooling can decrease the start-up time. Small alkaline electrolyser cells are available, which offer 20 seconds start-up time. Downward regulation of the load can be achieved within few seconds. A Solid Oxide Electrolyser system can be controlled by regulation of the temperature (by changing the current through the cells) and at the same time control the water or steam supply. The thermal control of the cells will be important for the control of power to the electrolyser. Downwards regulation from 100% to 0% can happen in approx. 30 seconds, whereas the upward control can take 15 minutes or more. PEM electrolysers will offer better performance in terms of control range and regulation time. A dynamic range of the PEM electrolyser 5100 % of rated capacity has been achieved and typically the electrolyser will have a response time from 5-100 % in less than a second. In this context the performance of electrolysers in combination with wind generation is of interest. As indicated in the table below, this combination offers a variation of possibilities that can ensure fast response
System need Increase power in the system Electrolyser Wind

Decrease generation Fast response < 5 seconds Available when in operation Figure 7-10. Power control possibilities for a combination of wind and electrolyser
Decrease power in the system

Decrease load Fast response < 5 seconds Available when in operation Increase load Slow response Available when in operation

Increase generation Only possible to in special cases with prior reduction

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7.6.2 Primary active power/frequency control

The demand for primary power/frequency control in the electrical power system is defined in UCTE and NORDEL requirements. The primary power/frequency control needs to be provided automatically within 5-30 seconds. If the electrolyzer would enter this marked segment, it would require that the electrolyser would have to be in operation all times and continuously offer margins for the required control range. Not all present electrolysers on the marked can offer the performance required without change in the control and cooling system.

7.6.3 Automatic emergency reserves

It is presently required that generation units (both conventional power plants and wind farms), which are connected to the transmission system, are obliged to provide automatic active power reserves for the support of the power system in case of disturbances. The control should be activated automatically when frequency excursions outside specified limits occur. This is not a service that will be paid for with reference to the Electricity Act. Presently such obligations are not applied to specific flexible loads. However, in case emergency reserves are not sufficient to stabilise the power system after the disturbance, frequency protections will automatically shed loads (i.e. disconnect consumers). Electrolysers may offer such services and as indicated in Figure 7-10 excellent performance can be achieved in combination with wind generation. Automatic control activated by a measured frequency deviation can easily be applied. In this context it is also interesting to look at the Danish TSO long-term plans to restructure the power system and dividing it into more or less autonomous network cells as described in section 7.3.2. An increase in installed wind power capacity in Denmark on-shore, which is envisaged, would expectedly develop as distributed generation rather than large wind farms, and would thus connect into the distribution systems. In this case the combination with electrolysers will increase the possibilities of achieving the emergency reserves needed in the cell

7.6.4 Secondary active power control (automatic or manual reserves)

Secondary reserves are in demand daily to balance deviations, which occur due to prediction errors (load and renewable generation) and breakdowns. This is an area where the market has extended and incitement to consumers to participate is introduced. For a consumer two services can be offered (a) Upward regulation by disconnection or reduction of load (b) Downward regulation by increasing load.

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The activation of the regulation can be automatic based on a remote control set point from the network regulator or done manually. Manual reserves (regulating power) can be offered in two ways (a) An availability obligation under which the consumer is obliged provide of a specified amount of regulating power for specified periods and receive availability compensation as well as energy payment. (b) Placing regulating power bids when attractive, freely select offered quantity and price, and receive energy payment when the bid is activated. Presently bids have to be minimum 10 MW and maximum 50-75 MW. Manually reserves have to be activated within 10-15 minutes. The market for regulating power is a segment where an electrolyser will be able to participate. A large electrolyser may offer a percentage of the capacity as regulating power and operate the remaining capacity as a flexible load on the spot market. As described above in 7.6.1 electrolysers may meet the requirements for activation time and the ramping time. Here start-up and ramp-up time of alkaline electrolysers are the only critical point. Technical solutions time may need to be developed. How an electrolyser may work on the market depends on how the system and the market develop in the future with a significant increase in wind generation. An availability obligation may be entered for downward regulation (increase load) on condition that the start-up time and power ramping up can meet the activation time requirement. An obligation for upward regulation (decrease load) may be less attractive, since this would require continuous operation of the offered capacity throughout high price peak hours. Presently the agreed capacities and the availability compensation for downward regulation (increase load) tends to be significantly lower that for up-ward regulation. New wind farms are expected to have improved performance in terms of power control and will need to accept some balance responsibility. Both stand-alone electrolysers and electrolysers in combination with wind generation will have good possibilities to operate on the free market for regulating power. Considering the fact that electrolysers are almost certain to be in operation during periods with high wind, which are also the periods where the system has highest needs for regulating power, makes it favourable both for the owners and the power system.

7.7 Reactive power and voltage control

7.7.1 Reactive power control of electrolysers
Basically electrolysers are consumers and as described in section 7.2 the power supply be means of diode or thyristor rectifiers will implicit result in a consumption of reactive power which has to be compensated for by installing capacitor banks. To improve performance, alternative converter configurations may be considered as described in section 7.2.5. 173

The most obvious solution would be to employ diode rectifier and a chopper for power control. This application would keep reactive power consumption at low level (constant high power factor) but will not offer any reactive power control capabilities. Ultimately, PWM converters would as mentioned offer the possibility of controlling of active power (or the DC voltage) and reactive power on the AC side independently. Electrolysers only need one way of active power flow and a converter designed for two quadrant operations may be applied. The reactive power capability may look like Figure 7-11 below.

Figure 7-11. PQ-capability curve for HVDC Light technology modified to show twoquadrant operation only (Source: ABB: HVDC, A firewall against disturbances in high-voltage grids.

This shows that the electrolyser may provide wide possibilities for reactive power control to the power system, even at low load. As mentioned, it may not be obvious to apply PWM converters to high current applications like electrolysers due to losses. But in the long run the development in performance and capabilities of PWM converters or the development (increase) in power system need of voltage control may result in a situation where break-even is met.

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7.7.2 Reactive power reserves, voltage control and short circuit level
In nowadays power system conventional generating units are the main source of reactive power and voltage control. All units in operation are obliged to participate, however a minimum number of power stations need to be in operation to provide the voltage control and short circuit level that guarantee stable and secure operation of the power system. If local reactive power reserves are insufficient in certain areas of the grid, the system operator mitigates problems by installing additional active compensation, e.g. by means of rotating synchronous condensers or static var-compensators (SVCs). Presently there is no market for other suppliers of reactive power reserves. Wind farms for instance are required to have to reactive power regulation, but are generally simply asked to operate at neutral power factor. The response of voltage control, which is needed by the power system, can be divided in (a) Voltage control under normal operation (small-signal response) (b) Voltage control during grid faults (large-signal response) Different response times are required in the two cases. An electrolyser supplied from a PWM converter and employing state of the art controls will offer a performance similar to an SVC and - taking into account the PQcapability chart - will be able to offer both kinds of voltage control. An SVC has been installed in a 132 kV substation Radsted on Lolland to compensate for voltage fluctuations from Nysted off shore wind farm. This has a regulating range +85/-65 Mvar. The total costs of this including substation etc. is approx. 100 million DKK. This might be an incentive to develop electrolysers in this direction.

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8 Conclusion
If the challenges pinpointed by the IPCC and others shall be met tremendous changes in our energy system is mandatory over a limited period of time. Strongly increased use of renewables requires large scale energy conversion and most likely techniques for large scale storage. There are two reasons for this. 1) The renewable energy production is typically very fluctuating (e.g. wind, solar) and the production will not be able to match the demand if a large fraction of the energy supply is fluctuating like the wind power. 2) The transport sector will for a long time need a fuel which can be stores onboard vehicles and ships. Battery powered vehicles are under steady development, by they still have a long way to go especially in terms of range before they are flexible enough for replacing fuelled vehicles. For heavy transport like trucks the demands are more severe, and for ships and planes battery systems are even more speculative. Even with a future introduction of a certain fleet of battery vehicles, the demand for some sort of fuel will be inevitable. Fuel can to some extend be produced from biomass and waste, but these sources will only partly cover the need. Some countries plan on depending on nuclear power, and this way it might be easier to match the overall energy demand, but it doesnt solve the problem of the transport sector as the energy still has the form of electricity or heat, just like the renewables (apart from biomass and waste). In conclusion, conversion from electricity to a fuel is inevitable in a future energy system, and no matter if this fuel is pure hydrogen or synthetic fuels (methanol, methane, gasoline etc.) the first step is production of hydrogen from water splitting. Although there are a number of methods for water splitting, at present the only realistic technique for this process at a large scale is water electrolysis.

8.1 Electrolyzer technology

There are basically 3 types of electrolyzers of practical interest, namely the alkaline electrolyzer (AEC), the polymer electrolyzer (PEMEC) and the solid oxide electrolyser (SOEC). The AEC is in its present for the standard technology which is has been available commercially for many years up to the MW size. It is manufactured from rather inexpensive materials without noble metals and the working temperature is below 100C. The AEC technology appears to be quite bulky and gives the impression of having been developed for low cost manufacturing rather than sophistication. However, further development of the AEC technology is envisioned. With operating temperatures up to about 200C improved performance is expected and the possibility of utilizing the excess heat increases. Another route for improvement is to increase the working pressure, which is also the delivery pressure for the hydrogen and oxygen. If the product are to be used for further synthesis at high pressure or stored in pressure tanks this pre-compression reduced the subsequent compression work. The ideal work of compression from 1 to 10 bar is equivalent to the ideal work of compression from 10 to 100 bar so; even a moderate pressurization of the electrolyzer is advantageous. Today large scale 32 bar AECs are available. The PEMEC is in its initial commercial state, but the units are so far smaller than the AECs. They comprise a more compact and sophisticated technology based

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on noble metal catalysts. Several of the companies know for their AECs are these years establishing parallel development lines for PEMEC. The fact that the electrolyte is practically solid (in contrast to the AEC) is an advantage if the system is to be pressurized. The working temperature for PEMECs is below 100C like for the conventional AEC, but it is also here suggested to increase the temperature to the interval 100-200C just like it has recently been done for the PEM fuel cell. This will require a high temperature membrane system. The benefits expected are similar to those for AEC at elevated temperature. A common challenge for increasing the working temperature for the two systems is that corrosion effects will be more pronounced and consequently, significant materials research is necessary. The SOEC is working at high temperatures in the range of 700-1000C. It benefits from the fact that the electrical energy theoretical required decreases with temperature (a tendency that is also beneficial when the temperature is increase for the low temperature systems mentioned above, although the effect is much more pronounced at SOEC temperatures). The SOEC is not yet close to commercialization, but its potential for operations at the thermo-neutral voltage makes it a very promising future candidate with high electric efficiency. It is found that H2 and CO can be produced at attractive production costs, using SOECs. The H2 production cost was found to be 71 US/kg equivalent to 30 $/barrel crude oil using the HHV. The CO production cost was found to be 5.6 US/kg equivalent to 34 $/barrel crude oil using the HHV. If heat for steam generation can be provided from a waste heat source, the production price can be lowered even further. For lifetimes above 3-4 years the H2 production price starts to become insensitive to the life time. For the CO production price this is about 6 years. The production cost was found to be lowest at ETn. Here the efficiency from electricity to fuel was found to be 93% for CO production and 96% for H2 production. These figures do not include heat loss to the surroundings. Recycling of CO2 for carbon dioxide neutral synthetic fuels can be performed with calcium carbonate, which is a well-known CO2 absorbent and has been suggested for CO2 sequestration. Thermodynamic equilibrium calculations show on the other hand that CO2 capture/recycling using magnesium carbonate can be operated at approximately 400 C lower than the 800 C for calcium carbonate. A carbonate cycle for CO2 capture/recycling is definitively technically feasible, but the practical and economic aspects regarding calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate or calcium magnesium carbonate have to be assessed to determine the most suitable absorbent for CO2 capture/recycling.

8.2 Large commercial electrolyzers

A review of the performance of commercially available electrolysers was carried out. It covered solely AEC systems because the PEMECs on the market were too small for large scale hydrogen production. Five western and one eastern company related to delivery of electrolyser systems have been identified. Prices of the western plants show that systems not smaller than 1 MW have to be used in order to get reasonable specific prices (EURO/kW).

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The companies were: Norsk Hydro, Norway(ambient pressure: 200 to 2000 kW, pressurized 50 to 300 kW Hydrogenics, Belgium/Canada (pressurized:60 to 240 kW) Iht, Switzerland (ambient pressure: 14 to 1500 kW, pressurized: 500 to 3400 kW) AccaGen, Switzerland (pressurized: 7 to 500 kW) Erre Due, Italy (pressurized: 100 to 200 kW) Uralhimmash, Russia. (ambient pressure: 1520 to 3150 kW, pressurized: 201250kW) Electrolysers have the reputation of being very expensive. It is true but often when the price pr. kW of a specific electrolyser is mentioned the size of the plant is not given. The specific price of electrolysers (EURO / kW) is strongly dependent of the size of the plant. The price analysis below shows it very clearly. The prices of electrolyzers for which prices were obtained are plotted in Figure 8-1. It can be seen that the price per kW installed capacity vary with a factor of 10 dependent of the size of the plant.

Prices of Alcaline Electrolysers

10000 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 0 500 1.000 1.500 kW 1 Bar, HYDRO 4 Bar, H2Industrial 16 Bar, HYDRO 6 Bar, AccaGen 10 Bar, Hydrogenics 1 Bar ELT 2.000 2.500 3.000

Figure 8-1. Prices of electrolyzers as a function of production capacity

The prices are collected over the last 5 years from year 2000 and therefore not consistent. Anyhow, the graphic shows clearly that in order to obtain relatively cheap elecrtolysers, they have to be as large as possible and not smaller then about 1 MW. The efficiency of an electrolyser is defined as the ratio of the higher heat value (HHV) of the hydrogen produced and the DC electricity consumption of the electrolyser. The commercial electrolyzers have an electricity consumption of 4.1 to 4.8 kWh per normal m3 produced. Using the HHV of 3.5 kWh/m3 hydrogen, the efficiencies can be calculated to between 85 and 73%. Hydrogen is produced from water and electricity. The water consumption is about one litre per normal cubic metre (Nm3) of hydrogen and the electricity required is approx 4kWh per Nm3. This means that the water price is minimal compared to the price of the electricity. 178

Euro / kW

The electricity cost for hydrogen production was calculated on the following basis: 1) Actual electricity prices through 2006 (varying). 2) The price of the largest electrolyzer in the study. Assumptions: 1) Electrolyzer depreciation over 10 years, 75% efficiency (HHV). The production cost for hydrogen was then varying between 0.45 and 0.50 kr/kWh for between 25 and 100% use of the electrolyzer (part time production at lowest electricity prices). If, moreover, the value of oxygen and heat was included in the calculation the cost was between 0.35 and 0.40 kr/kWh. If the electrolyzer efficiency is assumed td to be 100% instead of 75% the cost is between 0.30 and 0.33 kr/kWh in the same utilisation interval. This limited reduction is not an argument against research and development of more efficient electrolyzers, but a very strong indication that there is absolutely no reason to await more efficient electrolysers to start business development.

8.3 Future research and development

Research and development in water electrolysis will most likely increase in countries with tradition for electrochemical activities, especially fuel cells. Denmark with its full-grown fuel cell R&D community will also be part of that, and the process has already started on different levels. Ris, DTU has for some time addressed SOEC with impressive results and other groups at the universities are involved in catalyst development for electrolysis (Dept. of Physics, DTU), electrodes for alkaline electrolyzers (HIH, Aarhus Univ.) and new materials for PEMEC (Dept. Chem., DTU) to mention a few activities. The development of the three different electrolysers (AEC, PEMEC and SOEC) will be a steady gradual improvement of key figure in performance and lifetime. New promising routes are mainly higher working temperatures of the two first systems, and higher pressures for all systems. A higher working temperature results in lower theoretical demand of energy in the form of electricity (work) and more in the form of heat. As heat is always produced to some extent due to internal losses, the result is improved electrical efficiency. Another advantage of higher temperature is that excess heat developed can better be utilized, e.g. in the district heating system provided that the temperature is high enough. If the excess heat is utilized it is not a waste and the overall efficiency is high even though the electrical efficiency is not. Materials for AEC at elevated temperature are identified, but testing especially with respect to stability is needed. For the development of PEMEC at higher temperatures it is obvious to start with the high temperature membranes already applied for fuel cells and modify the electrodes to avoid corrosion. Higher working pressure of the cell makes it possible to deliver hydrogen at higher pressure and consequently, less compression work is needed for subsequent compression for storage in pressure tanks. Commercial electrolyzer working at 32 bar are already available, but is should be possible to go further. The production of synthetic fuels inside or in direct connection with the electrolyzer is possible at elevated temperature. In SOEC not only water electrolysis is possible CO2 can also be electrolyzed to CO which in combination with hydrogen for synthesis gas, the starting point for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis of organic fuels. Methane synthesis has recently been carried out in PEM cells at elevated temperature. 179

The concept of using the same cells as both fuel cells and electrolyzer cells is very tempting. Many attempts have been made over the years to develop so called reversible or bi-functional cells, but it appears to be a challenge to match the good fuel cells and good electrolyzers with the same cell. The best starting point is probably the electrolyzer, and not the fuel cell, because the electrolyzer faces the highest voltages and thus the most challenging conditions with respect to corrosion. Standard PEMFC electrodes based on carbon materials are not durable in electrolyzer mode (at least not on the oxygen side), but there is no reason why electrolyzer electrode cannot operate in fuel cell mode. However, as a special case, the solid oxide electrolyzer cells at Ris are developed from the equivalent fuel cells, but in this case the materials are based on oxides, i.e. materials that are already oxidized in the first place. In conclusion, development of reversible fuel cells is to a large extent electrolyzer technology. In practical application the electrolyzer stack is not standing alone. A system around needs development as well, and when water electrolysis is to be used for energy conversion this system will be different to a system for production of industrial gasses and the possible interplay with other parts of the energy system now becomes important. Oxygen can be used in an oxy-fuel combustion process resulting in high temperatures and highly concentrated CO2 in the flue gas. This CO2 can be useful for the synthesis of synthetic fuels, as there will be no need for N2 removal. The heat produced must be at a high enough temperature for sufficient heat transport through heat exchangers. Heat transport always requires temperature differences as the driving force. Transport of heat from a 60-80C electrolyzer to a district heating net is not possible without additional electrical energy spent in a heat pump. If the temperature is 150C or more it might be practical. Synthesis of methanol, methane or other synthetic fuels might be desirable because it eases storage and later fuelling. It should be studied under which condition the electrolyzer itself or the system can facilitate this synthesis. Generally, atomic hydrogen and oxygen (or their respective ions) that appear at the electrolyzer electrodes are more reactive than the molecular hydrogen and oxygen they form before they are released as products of the electrolysis process. In case hydrogen is produced with the aim of storing, say wind energy, the oxygen produced should be stored as well. The production ratio (1:2) is of course the same as needed for the back conversion, and fuel cells operated on pore oxygen (instead of air with only 21% oxygen) performs with a higher efficiency. The leading position of the Danish wind industry might be difficult to maintain in the future as large countries with cheap labour (India, China) are now taking up the competition. A decisive parameter in the global competition could be supporting technologies optionally to go with the wind turbines. When wind power is enhanced to cover a larger fraction of the energy supply in other countries that Denmark and a few more, technology to handle the produced hydrogen will be asked for. Finally, to conclude in short form: with a large fraction of renewables in the energy system water electrolysis is inevitable even though the technology is not perfect. Efficiencies, short term cost and the advantages and drawbacks of the different

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technologies can be, and will be, discussed. However, a more fundamental question could be what is the alternative, if business as usual is not an option?

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