Multiphysics modeling of proton exchange membrane water electrolysis: From steady to dynamic behavior
Nan Lin, Shouhua Feng, Jianguo Wang
Abstract
Abstract Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) is currently developed for the design of mature industrial‐scale manufactures with commercialization. It needs reducing hydrogen production cost by lowering material cost and increasing operating current density. In engineering perspectives, the study of electrolytic performance during dynamic operation is crucial for PEMWE system management and process control. However, there is few multiphysics models of PEMWE considering transient behavior. The one‐dimensional (1D) comprehensive dynamic multiphysics model allows to explore temporal transport phenomena in the PEMWE, and predict electrolytic performance. The 1D model is endorsed by the spatially lumped model from the literature. Changing values of structural and physical properties of porous transport layers (PTLs) and catalyst layers (CLs) allows the observation of their effects on the electrolytic performance and transport phenomena in two‐phase flow regime. It suggests that the appropriate PTL properties, and CL fabrication method can lower the cost and remain high electrolytic performance.