Enhancing energy efficiency in water electrolysis with electrodes
In water electrolysis, water molecules (H₂O) are split into hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) using an external electric current. The process occurs in two half-reactions: hydrogen evolution at the cathode and oxygen evolution at the anode.
These reactions are energy-intensive, with overall system efficiency striving on minimizing energy losses, also occurring at the electrodes due to overpotentials, ohmic resistance, or inefficient catalysis.
Improving the efficiency of these reactions requires electrodes with high catalytic activity, low resistance, and robust durability under operating conditions. This is where De Nora’s innovative electrode solutions make the difference.
De Nora’s electrodes are renowned for their proprietary coatings, which are engineered for optimal performance in alkaline electrolysis systems.
In fact, De Nora leverages state-of-the-art electrocatalyst materials to perform the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
These materials, usually a combination of transition, platinum-group and rare-earth metals, reduce the overpotentials, thereby lowering the energy required to drive the reactions.
Additionally, operating in highly corrosive environments, such as alkaline electrolytes, necessitates electrodes that can withstand degradation over time. De Nora’s specialized coatings enhance the lifespan of the electrodes, maintaining performance stability under prolonged operation.
Finally, the low overpotential and high conductivity of De Nora’s electrodes translate to reduced energy consumption, which is critical for scaling up hydrogen production in an economically viable way.
De Nora’s electrodes contribute to improved energy efficiency in water electrolysis in several key ways:
• Minimizing energy losses through advanced catalytic materials that reduce the excess voltage required beyond the thermodynamic potential of water splitting.
• Enabling higher current densities without compromising efficiency, allowing for greater hydrogen production rates per unit area.
• Integrating with renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, supporting stable performance in systems with intermittent power supply.
De Nora’s electrodes are already widely used in energy-intensive industries like chlor-alkali production, where they help reduce operational costs by lowering electricity consumption.
Plus, in alignment with global decarbonization goals, De Nora’s technology supports the production of green hydrogen, which is derived from water electrolysis powered by renewable energy.
De Nora’s electrode technology marks a major step forward in improving the energy efficiency of water electrolysis.
The company has established itself as a key enabler of sustainable hydrogen production by addressing key challenges such as overpotential, durability, and compatibility with various electrolyzer types.
As the world transitions to a hydrogen-based economy, the need for efficient and reliable electrodes will only grow. In this context, De Nora’s contribution is pivotal in accelerating the achievement of global energy and climate targets.