Working in collaboration with the University of Surrey, a team of researchers from RGU have made significant advancements in the development of electrolyser cells used in Solid Oxide Steam Electrolysis (SOSE) systems. The aim of their study was to enhance the rate of hydrogen production and improve the manufacturing process for these cells.
SOSE systems are designed to utilize waste steam generated from nuclear power plants to produce hydrogen. Operating at high temperatures ranging from 600 °C to 900 °C, the cathode, electrolyte, and anode layers of the electrolyser cells need to be developed with thermal spray and dip coating techniques.
Through their research, the team at RGU successfully designed, fabricated, and tested a tubular electrolyser cell that demonstrated a higher rate of hydrogen production compared to existing cells. This breakthrough holds significant promise for eco-friendly and sustainable development, with potential applications in cost-effective hydrogen production.
Professor Nadimul Faisal, the research lead from RGU’s School of Engineering, emphasized the importance of these advancements in enabling greener and more efficient technology. He expressed his intention to commercialize the product and further exploit the outcomes of the research project.
Although progress has been made, the team acknowledged the need for further research in manufacturing techniques to prevent cracking under high temperatures. Upscaling and life cycle assessments are also crucial steps towards the commercialization of this technology.
Dr. Anil Prathuru, a lecturer at RGU’s School of Engineering, highlighted the significance of scalable manufacturing in the broader context of the UK’s energy goals. This project provided an opportunity for the team to explore innovative ideas to enhance operational efficiency and demonstrate a highly scalable method of electrolyser manufacture.
Professor Mamdud Hossain of RGU expressed his excitement about the project, describing it as an opportunity to build something from scratch through fundamental research. By showcasing the superior performance of their technology compared to existing designs, the team is now seeking additional partnerships to bring this technology closer to the market.
In conclusion, the collaboration between RGU and the University of Surrey has resulted in notable advancements in the field of electrolyser cells for SOSE systems. This breakthrough holds the potential to contribute significantly towards eco-friendly and sustainable hydrogen production, bolstering the UK’s energy goals while offering cost-effective solutions. With further research and commercialization efforts, the future of enhanced hydrogen production looks promising.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Electrolyser Cells for Solid Oxide Steam Electrolysis (SOSE) Systems
1. What is the aim of the research conducted by RGU in collaboration with the University of Surrey?
The aim of the research was to enhance the rate of hydrogen production and improve the manufacturing process for electrolyser cells used in Solid Oxide Steam Electrolysis (SOSE) systems.
2. What are SOSE systems and how do they produce hydrogen?
SOSE systems utilize waste steam from nuclear power plants to produce hydrogen. The cathode, electrolyte, and anode layers of the electrolyser cells are developed using thermal spray and dip coating techniques. These cells operate at high temperatures ranging from 600 °C to 900 °C.
3. What advancements did the team at RGU achieve?
The team at RGU successfully designed, fabricated, and tested a tubular electrolyser cell that demonstrated a higher rate of hydrogen production compared to existing cells.
4. What are the potential applications of this breakthrough?
This breakthrough holds promise for eco-friendly and sustainable development, with potential applications in cost-effective hydrogen production.
5. What is the intention of Professor Nadimul Faisal, the research lead?
Professor Nadimul Faisal expressed his intention to commercialize the product and further exploit the outcomes of the research project.
6. What are the remaining challenges and steps towards the commercialization of this technology?
Further research is needed to address manufacturing techniques to prevent cracking under high temperatures. Upscaling and life cycle assessments are also crucial steps towards the commercialization of this technology.
7. How does scalable manufacturing relate to the UK’s energy goals?
Dr. Anil Prathuru, a lecturer at RGU’s School of Engineering, highlighted the significance of scalable manufacturing in achieving the UK’s energy goals. It offers an opportunity to enhance operational efficiency and demonstrate a highly scalable method of electrolyser manufacture.
8. What are Professor Mamdud Hossain’s thoughts on the project?
Professor Mamdud Hossain expressed excitement about the project, describing it as an opportunity to build something from scratch through fundamental research. The team aims to showcase the superior performance of their technology compared to existing designs.
9. What is the potential impact of this collaboration?
The collaboration between RGU and the University of Surrey has resulted in notable advancements in the field of electrolyser cells for SOSE systems. This breakthrough holds the potential to contribute significantly towards eco-friendly and sustainable hydrogen production, bolstering the UK’s energy goals while offering cost-effective solutions.
For more information, visit the RGU website: rgu.ac.uk and the University of Surrey website: surrey.ac.uk
