NREL High-Pressure Low-Temperature Electrolysis Cell (redox.me)

Developed by National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) High-Pressure Low-Temperature Electrolysis (LTE) Cell is on open-source cell hardware designed for repeated reassembly. This work was planned and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s H2NEW consortium.

Redox.me offers a 25 cm² PEM variant produced based on the technical documentation from NREL, as well as other variants developed by redox.me according to NREL guidelines. In the former, the flow field pattern is directly translated from 25 cm² PEM variant. The dissemination of these products aims to facilitate easy access to this equipment for a wide range of users. However, if you have the capability to produce the 25 cm² PEM variant on your own, we encourage you to use the open-source files. It may turn out that if you have access to your own technical resources, this will be a more cost-effective option. 3D CAD models and 2D technical drawings for variant 25 cm² PEM are available for download.

High pressure LTE operation can reduce operating costs, as it is more efficient to produce electrochemically pressurized hydrogen compared to using downstream mechanical compressors. However, the cell is also compatible with ambient pressure LTE.
The cell can accommodate porous transport layers of varying thicknesses. To achieve this, the number of gaskets on each side of the cell can be increased, providing a larger volume for the porous transport layer.
One benefit of the smaller surface area variants (1 cm² and 4 cm²) is their compatibility for testing with a potentiostat and booster. In these cases, the current levels are typically within the acceptable range for most boosters. However, for larger active surfaces with current densities up to 6 A/cm², a high-power programmable DC power supply may be required.

Application note:
The documents and drawings linked below outline the design of low-temperature electrolysis hardware that is intended to meet leak testing standards as per ASME B31.1. They also provide comprehensive cell assembly instructions and a procedure for performance benchmarking. The responsibility for safe operation at both ambient and elevated pressures lies solely with the end user, and each individual cell should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The sealing effectiveness may be influenced by factors such as machining quality, components used in cell assembly, operating conditions, and the operational history. Pressure operations should only be conducted on qualified test stands by trained operators.

Specification:

cell
active area: 25 cm², 4 cm² or 1 cm² (other on request)
maximum verified working pressure: 30 bar
flow field design: triple serpentine (other on request)
temperature sensor
sensor type: Pt100 x2 (100 W at 0 ºC)
construction: Wire-Wound, 10 mm tails
fundamental interval: 38.5 W (nominal)
self-heating: 0.02 to 0.3 ºC/mW
thermal response: <0.4 s
measuring current: 1 mA
diameter: 1.5 mm
length: 15 mm
tolerance class (IEC 60751): Class A
temperature range: -200 ºC to +650 ºC
body material: alumina
adhesive-backed pad heater
power source: electric
voltage: max 60 V
power: max 59 W
resistance: 61 W
material: polyimide
maximum temperature: 250 ºC
wire type: silicone braided wire
insulating resistance: >5 MW
size: 50 mm x 50 mm
thickness: <0.2666 mm
adhesive: 3M
wire length: 60 mm
fittings
body material: Stainless Steel 316
connection 1 size: 1/4 in. tube OD (6.35 mm)
connection 1 type: Swagelok® Tube Fitting
connection 2 size: 7/16-20 in.
connection 2 type: male SAE/MS straight thread
reference: Swagelok® part #: SS-400-5-4ST

Intrastat data:
HS Code: 90278080
Country of Origin: Sweden
NET weight: 2000 g

List of Materials:
anode flow field (PEM): platinum coated titanium (grade II)
cathode flow field (PEM): gold coated titanium (grade II)
anode flow field (AEM): pure nickel
cathode flow field (AEM): pure nickel
threaded end plate: anodized aluminium
unthreaded end plate: anodized aluminium
current collectors: gold coated (nickel interlayer) copper (101)
fittings: Stainless Steel 316
bolts: zinc yellow-chromate plated steel grade 8
gaskets: skived PTFE and FKM
washers: Stainless Steel18/8
Belleville washers: Stainless Steel 302
insulating tape: PEEK
alignment pins: PFA
temperature sensor body: alumina
adhesive backed pad heater: polyimide with 3M adhesive

Setup includes:
1 x anode flow field
1 x cathode flow field
1 x threaded end plate
1 x unthreaded end plate
2 x current collector
4 x Swagelok® part #: SS-400-5-4ST fitting
8 x bolt
10 x FKM gasket
10 x skived PTFE gasket
16 x washer
64 x Belleville washer
2 x insulating PEEK tape
4 x alignment pin 11 mm long, 3 mm OD
2 x alignment pin 8 mm long, 3 mm OD
2 x dual Pt100 temperature sensor
2 x adhesive backed pad heater

Description

Select configuration

Select active area:

Selelct electrolyzer type:

Literature

Wrubel, Jacob, Samantha Ware, Corey Schaffer, Matt Allen, Ellis Klein, Robin Rice, Chaiwat Engtrakul, and Guido Bender. 2023. “NREL 25-cm2 High-Pressure Low-Temperature Electrolysis Cell Hardware (Open Source).” NREL Data Catalog. Golden, CO: National Renewable Energy Laboratory. https://doi.org/10.7799/2205626

Categories: NEW PRODUCTS, NREL High-Pressure Low-Temperature Electrolysis Cell

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High-Pressure EC, 25 bar, 50 mL – High-Pressure Single-Compartment Electrochemical Cell (redox.me)

The High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell is a sophisticated apparatus engineered to facilitate advanced research in electrochemistry under elevated pressure and temperature conditions. The cell is capable of withstanding pressures up to 25 bar and temperatures up to 200 ⁰C, allowing researchers to investigate electrochemical processes under hydrothermal conditions or using a hot pressurized environment for organic solvents as reaction media. It is a single-compartment cell that accommodates various electrode setups, including standard 2- or 3-electrode configurations and custom arrangements tailored to specific experimental requirements. The cell is designed to accommodate various electrodes and sample types, including solids, liquids, and gases, enabling comprehensive studies across different material systems.

The cell is constructed from high-quality materials such as Stainless Steel 316L (outer body), PEEK (liner), and FFKM elastomer (O-rings), ensuring robustness and reliability even under harsh experimental conditions. Cell material system is compatible with the following material systems: aqueous electrolytes in a full pH range, organic solvents (sulfoxides, amides, ethers, alcohols, aromatic), organic and inorganic salts (including fluorinated anions, ammonium), gases (N₂, Ar, H₂) – PEEK, FFKM O-Rings The cell is equipped with three 6 mm dia. electrode ports, two 1/4 in. OD tube gas/liquid inlet/outlet, and assembly of a manometer and safety relief valve (25 bar) mounted on the cooling tower. Additionally, there is a 1/8 in. OD port for a temperature probe inside the PEEK liner. The cell is compatible with the high-pressure working electrode, high-pressure counter electrode, and high-pressure reference electrode. Unused electrode ports can be terminated with high-pressure plug.

Application note:
Catalysis plays a pivotal role in various industrial processes, from petroleum refining to pharmaceutical synthesis. Understanding catalytic mechanisms under realistic conditions is crucial for optimizing catalyst performance and developing efficient processes. The High Pressure Electrochemical Cell offers a sophisticated platform for studying catalytic reactions under elevated pressure and electrochemical environments simultaneously. The cell is typically used to investigate the effect of pressure on electrochemical kinetics and mechanisms, study the electrochemical behavior of materials under high-pressure conditions for applications in energy storage, catalysis, and corrosion, and explore novel electrode materials and electrolyte systems tailored for high-pressure electrochemical devices.
Electrodes are not included in the cell and should be added to the quotation separately.

Specification:
maximum operating pressure: 25 bar
total volume of PEEK liner: 50 mL
recommended volume of liquid: 30 – 35 mL
maximum operating temperature: 200 ⁰C
port for temperature probe: 1/8 in. (3.175 mm)
electrode port diameter: 6 mm
number of electrode ports: 3
other port diameters: 1/4 in. (6.35 mm)
pressure gauge dial range: 0 – 40 bar
recommended tubing: 1/4 in. OD, 1/8 in. ID PEEK tube

Intrastat data:
HS Code: 90309000
Country of Origin: Sweden
NET weight: 2500g

Safety note:
The use of a High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell involves working with equipment capable of withstanding elevated pressures and conducting experiments with potentially reactive chemicals. Ensuring safety during operation is paramount to prevent accidents and protect personnel and equipment. Below are key safety considerations to observe when using the High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell:

1. Prior to operation, all personnel involved should receive comprehensive training on the setup, operation, and safety protocols associated with the High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell. Only trained individuals familiar with the equipment should be permitted to operate it.

2. Adhere strictly to the specified pressure limitations of the High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell. Do not exceed the recommended pressure range to prevent over-pressurization, which could lead to equipment failure and potential hazards.

3. Ensure that all materials, including electrodes, seals, and electrolytes, are compatible with the pressure and chemical environment inside the cell. Incompatibilities could result in leaks, corrosion, or other safety hazards.

4. Verify that the pressure relief mechanism is in place and functioning correctly. This mechanism is crucial for safely releasing excess pressure in the event of over-pressurization.

5. Regularly inspect the seals and connections of the High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell for signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Replace any compromised components promptly to maintain sealing integrity and prevent pressure-related accidents.

6. Establish clear emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and protocols for handling pressure-related incidents. Ensure that all personnel are aware of these procedures and know how to respond effectively in case of emergencies.

7. Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and lab coats, when operating the High Pressure Electrochemical Cell. Additional PPE may be necessary depending on the specific experimental conditions and hazards involved.

8. Supervise experiments closely and monitor the High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell continuously during operation. Respond promptly to any abnormalities or unexpected changes in pressure or performance.

By adhering to these safety guidelines and exercising caution and diligence, users can minimize risks and ensure the safe and effective operation of the High-Pressure Electrochemical Cell in the laboratory. Always prioritize safety to protect yourself, your colleagues, and the integrity of the experimental setup.

Product includes:
1 x pressure vessel, SS 316L
1 x PEEK liner 50 mL
1 x PEEK lid
1 x set of PEEK screws
1 x cell lid, SS 316L
1 x screw cup, SS 316L
1 x cooling tower, SS 316L
1 x manometer (0 – 40 bar)
1 x safety relief valve set for 25 bar
1 x 4-way union, Swagelok 1/4 in. OD, SS 316L
3 x electrode fitting, Swagelok 6 mm OD x 1/8 in. Male NPT, SS 316L
2 x fitting, Swagelok 1/4 in. OD x 1/8 in. Male NPT, SS 316L
2 x ball valve, Swagelok 1/4 in. OD, SS 316L
1 x set of O-rings, FFKM,
1 x temperature probe fitting, IDEX, 1/8 in. x 1/4-28, SS 316L
3 x connecting unit, 1/4 in. OD, 1/8 in. ID, 30 mm long, SS 316L
2 x C-spanner 85 mm (cell opening tool)
1 x PEEK plug, 6 mm dia.
1 x PTFE tape

Related products:
High-pressure working electrode
High-pressure counter electrode
High-pressure reference electrode
High-pressure plug

Read more

NREL High-Pressure Low-Temperature Electrolysis Cell (redox.me)

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High-Pressure EC, 25 bar, 50 mL – High-Pressure Single-Compartment Electrochemical Cell (redox.me)

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