Climate Insider Brief:
- Scientists at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden have devised a novel method for hydrogen production that separates oxygen and hydrogen gases, eliminating the risk of explosions inherent in traditional methods.
- Unlike conventional electrolysis processes where both gases are produced simultaneously and separated by membranes, the new method produces oxygen and hydrogen gases separately.
- The commercial potential of this innovation is highlighted by the establishment of Caplyzer AB, a company aimed at scaling up the technology.
A novel method for generating hydrogen energy has been developed by scientists in Sweden, offering enhanced efficiency and safety in the process. Spearheaded at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, this innovative approach aims to revolutionise the way hydrogen is produced, addressing key concerns associated with traditional methods.
The conventional electrolysis process for hydrogen production involves splitting water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen by applying an electric current. However, one of the inherent risks of this process is the potential for the two gases to combine, leading to hazardous situations such as explosions. To mitigate this risk, researchers at KTH have devised a method that separates the production of oxygen and hydrogen, eliminating the possibility of their mixing.
In contrast to existing systems where both gases are produced simultaneously within the same cell and then separated by membrane barriers, the new method developed at KTH produces oxygen and hydrogen gases separately. This breakthrough not only enhances safety by eliminating the risk of explosions but also eliminates the need for rare Earth metals in the process.
Esteban Toledo, a Ph.D. student at KTH involved in the research, highlights the significance of this separation in reducing safety concerns. According to Toledo, “That separation eliminates the possibility of the gases mixing with the risk of explosions.” This is a crucial advancement in hydrogen production technology, ensuring a safer working environment.
Moreover, the efficiency of the new method has been demonstrated through rigorous testing. Joydeep Dutta, professor of applied physics at KTH, mentions that the hydrogen gas Faradaic efficiency reached an impressive 99 percent in lab tests. Additionally, long-term tests showed no apparent electrode degradation, indicating the commercial viability of the technology.
The commercial potential of this innovation is further underscored by the formation of Caplyzer AB, a company established through KTH Innovation to scale up the technology. With its potential for enhanced safety, efficiency, and commercial viability, the new method holds promise for widespread adoption in green energy production.
One of the key advantages of the new method is its compatibility with intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. By decoupling the production of oxygen and hydrogen, the system can operate over a wider range of input power, facilitating integration with fluctuating renewable energy outputs. This flexibility makes it a compelling solution for sustainable energy production.
The heart of the innovation lies in the replacement of one of the electrodes with a supercapacitive electrode made from carbon. These electrodes store and release ions alternately, effectively separating the production of hydrogen and oxygen. As Dutta explains, “One electrode does the evolution of both oxygen and hydrogen. It’s a lot like a rechargeable battery producing hydrogen – alternately charging and discharging. It’s all about completing the circuit.”
In summary, the new method developed by scientists at KTH represents a significant advancement in hydrogen production technology. By addressing safety concerns, enhancing efficiency, and offering compatibility with renewable energy sources, it paves the way for a more sustainable and reliable approach to green energy production. As efforts to transition towards a greener future continue, innovations like this will play a crucial role in shaping the energy landscape.
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Featured Image: Credit: Phys.org
