Towards developing a backing layer for proton exchange membrane electrolyzers

• A thermally sprayed titanium MPL for PEM electrolyzers has been developed.
• SEM images revealed a micro-size pore structure and high rugosity.
• The MPL reduces contact resistance by ca. 20 mΩ cm2.
• The improvement in the PEM electrolyzer has been confirmed by EIS.
• The MPL enhances significantly the performance at high current densities.

Current energy policies require the urgent replacement of fossil energy carriers by carbon neutral ones, such as hydrogen. The backing or micro-porous layer plays an important role in the performance of hydrogen proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, reducing contact resistance and improving reactant/product management. Such carbon-based coating cannot be used in PEM electrolysis since it oxidizes to CO2 at high voltages. A functional titanium macro-porous layer (MPL) on the current collectors of a PEM electrolyzer is developed by thermal spraying. It improves the contact with the catalyst layers by ca. 20 mΩ cm2, increasing significantly the efficiency of the device when operating at high current densities.

A titanium MPL on the current collectors of a PEM electrolyzer has been developed by thermal spraying. Its effect is greatly reflected in the performance of the hydrogen generator.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide