Enhancing Nickel-Iron Gas Diffusion Electrodes for Oxygen Evolution in Alkaline Water Electrolysis

Abstract

Alkaline water electrolysis is a well-known technology for sustainable hydrogen production powered by renewable energy. The use of gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) based on nonprecious materials eliminates the need for an anolyte cycle, leading to a cost reduction of the electrolysis process. In this work, the production of GDEs made of nickel particles and different iron precursors is investigated for the improvement of the oxygen evolution reaction. The GDE production followed an established four-step process: dispersing, spraying, hot pressing, and sintering. Physical characterization comprised the determination of the pore size distribution by capillary flow porometry and mercury porosimetry, as well as BET surface area measurements. Electrochemical characterization through linear sweep voltammetry and EIS measurements was performed in a custom half cell. The results show that the overall performance of the GDE based on low-cost iron compounds was comparable to existing GDE formulations, while improvements could be achieved regarding the overpotential in the kinetic region. Nevertheless, future investigations concerning the gas purity and long-term stability of the GDEs will be the next steps of the electrode development.