Oriented intergrowth of the catalyst layer in membrane electrode assembly for alkaline water electrolysis
Lei Wan, Maobin Pang, Junfa Le, Ziang Xu, Hangyu Zhou, Qin Xu, Baoguo Wang
Abstract
Abstract The application of membrane electrode assemblies is considered a promising approach for increasing the energy efficiency of conventional alkaline water electrolysis. However, previous investigations have mostly focused on improving membrane conductivity and electrocatalyst activity. This study reports an all-in-one membrane electrode assembly obtained by de novo design. The introduction of a porous membrane readily enables the oriented intergrowth of ordered catalyst layers using solvothermal methods, leading to the formation of an all-in-one MEA for alkaline water electrolysis. This all-in-one MEA features ordered catalyst layers with large surface areas, a low-tortuosity pore structure, integrated catalyst layer/membrane interfaces, and a well-ordered OH - transfer channel. Owing to this design, a high current density of 1000 mA cm −2 is obtained at 1.57 V in 30 wt% KOH, resulting in a 94% energy efficiency. This work highlights the prospects of all-in-one membrane electrode assemblies in designing next-generation high-performance alkaline water electrolysis.