Advances in Electrochemical Hydrogen Compression and Purification

Abstract

Electrochemical Hydrogen Compression (EHC) delivers pure gas at pressure on demand, with additional features such as single stage compression, no moving parts, silent operation and dynamic (reversible) flow control and low sensitivity to input pressure. Fast kinetics of hydrogen HOR/HER benefit the pump rate capability at the catalyst interface on the impermeable membrane. Here, we developed superior proton conductivity properties in combination with minimal hydrogen back-diffusion characteristics, to be able to compress to pressures as high as 100 MPa with competitive energy consumption. Results are shown at single cell and stack level pumping 2 kg hydrogen per day (also in the field), where relevant models indicate contributions from different processes and influence of operating conditions to the overall energy requirement (kWh/kg). This work will connect the inherent working principles behind this potentially disruptive technology, and its latest achievements, with the status quo of competing technologies, bringing forward near-future applications and energy scenarios.