Performance assessment of a low-cost, scalable 0.5 kW alkaline zero-gap electrolyser

The performance of a six-cell zero-gap electrolyser with an active area 300 cm2 was analysed. device featured new design flowplate that employed spot-welding in order to eliminate machining costs. Direct resistance measurements were made, and computer simulations performed confirm the sub milli-ohm design. An test-rig constructed permit characterisation various electrolytes membranes at varying temperatures, versus comparable finite-gap results fitted simplified four-parameter model which permitted quantitative comparison, projection up 100 kW device. highest achieved 84% efficiency 6 M KOH 65 °C 400 mA/cm2, cell voltage still below 2 V 800 mA/cm2. total material cost build 0.5 is under 50 GBP (70 USD).