Mathematical Modelling and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for Degradation Monitoring of Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers

Water electrolysis plays a vital role in clean energy generation by producing hydrogen from water.
Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers represent a novel technology used for this purpose.
The performance of such electrolyzers is highly affected by various degradation processes occurring in
such systems. In this project, we are aiming to understand the sources of inefficiencies and the
parameters that control such mechanisms in water electrolyzer systems. Mathematical models
equipped with data obtained using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy will be used to
investigate the response of a test system to different degradation mechanisms. Finally, mitigation
strategies will be developed in order to enhance the efficiency of water electrolyzers. The applicability
of the proposed methodology for monitoring water electrolyzer systems can be extended to other
types of electrochemical systems, including larger-scale industrial systems.

Faculty Supervisor:

Bartosz Protas

Student:

Partner:

Pulsenics

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McMaster University

Program: