Modeling of Electrochemical Hydrogen Compression

This project aims to improve the performance of electrochemical hydrogen compressors (EHCs), which are used to recover and compress hydrogen for clean energy systems such as fuel cells. During operation, some hydrogen is lost, increasing cost and reducing efficiency. The performance of EHCs depends strongly on how hydrogen and water move through the polymer membrane at very small scales. This project addresses this limitation by developing detailed computer models that represent the membrane’s internal pore structure and simulate hydrogen and water transport under realistic conditions. Using computational techniques, the project will study how different properties affect hydrogen transport and efficiency losses. The simulation results will be compared with experimental data from the host institution to ensure accuracy and practical relevance. The findings will help identify better membrane designs and operating strategies.
The project will benefit both institutions by combining complementary expertise. The home institution at York will gain new modeling tools and computational data for ongoing research in fuel cells and energy systems, while the host institution at DHBW Mannheim will benefit from advanced modeling to better interpret experimental results. The collaboration will strengthen research ties, support joint publications, and help train highly qualified researchers in hydrogen technologies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Cuiying Jian

Student:

Partner:

DHBW Mannheim

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Energy and Utilities

University:

York University

Program: