[ components ]
Metal-fiber PTLs enhance efficiency of PEM electrolyzers in hydrogen production
The ongoing development of porous transport layers ( PTLs ) significantly enhances the efficiency of proton exchange membrane ( PEM ) electrolyzers in hydrogen production . Manufactured using advanced techniques at Bekaert ’ s state-of-the-art facility , PTLs composed of metal fibers represent a significant advancement in component technology . These PTLs not only optimize performance but also align with global initiatives to transition toward renewable hydrogen solutions .
By Thomas Favet , Lead R & D Ti PTL , Bekaert
Role of PTLs
An electrolyzer relies on several key components working together , with PTLs playing a pivotal role . Positioned typically on the anode side of the membrane electrode assembly ( MEA ), Bekaert ’ s PTLs are composed of metal fibers . These fibers , made of titanium , nickel , or stainless steel , have a tunable structure that controls pore size , thickness , porosity , electrical conductivity , and surface roughness . These parameters are critical , as they directly affect efficiency . Achieving consistent performance is not a matter of chance – it hinges on the quality , durability , and purity of the PTL . The industrialization of electrolyzer stack components presents a significant challenge due to the need for high-quality production , rapid scaling , and adaptability to design changes to remain at the cutting edge .
A PEM Water Electrolysis ( PEMWE ) cell consists of a Catalyst coated membrane ( CCM ), PTLs , and bipolar plates . At the anode , the oxygen evolution reaction
H2O
H2O
Cathode 2H + + 2e - → H 2
H2O
Anode H 2 O → 2H + + ½ O 2 + 2e -
H2O H2O
H 2 O
Flow field separator plates
Membrane PTL Currento ®
GDL Anode Electrode ( IrO 2 )
Cathode Electrode ( Pt / C ) Flow field separator plates
PEM electrolyzer stack cell . Image © Bekaert
40 Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 19 | December 2024