Proton exchange membrane electrolysis
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis is the electrolysis of water in a cell equipped with a solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) that is responsible for the conduction of protons, separation of product gases, and electrical insulation of the electrodes. The PEM electrolyzer was introduced to overcome the issues of partial load, low current density, and low pressure operation currently plaguing the alkaline electrolyzer. It involves a proton-exchange membrane.
Diagram of PEM electrolysis reactions.
PEM high pressure electrolyzer system
Polarization curve depicting the various losses attributed to PEM electrolysis cell operation.
Electrolysis of water is using electricity to split water into oxygen and hydrogen gas by electrolysis. Hydrogen gas released in this way can be used as hydrogen fuel, but must be kept apart from the oxygen as the mixture would be extremely explosive. Separately pressurised into convenient 'tanks' or 'gas bottles', hydrogen can be used for oxyhydrogen welding and other applications, as the hydrogen / oxygen flame can reach approximately 2,800°C.
An AA battery in a glass of tap water with salt showing hydrogen produced at the negative terminal
Hofmann voltameter connected to a direct current power supply
Match test used to detect the presence of hydrogen gas
H2 production cost ($-gge untaxed) at varying natural gas prices
