As part of the interdisciplinary research project CellDiagnostics, the Energy Storage Technologies Research Center (EST) at TU Clausthal is developing an innovative alkaline water electrolysis cell that features spatially and half-cell-resolved electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The project's objective is to precisely characterize cell components, including electrodes, separators, and current collectors, at the spatial resolution required for their design. Through a segmented-cell design and strategically positioned potential probes, it is possible, for the first time, to measure impedance spectra with both spatial and half-cell resolution. This enables detailed analysis of phenomena such as gas-bubble shielding, non-uniform flow distribution, stray currents, and material degradation.
The novel laboratory cell, with an active area of 100 cm², is equipped with advanced measurement technology and operated in combination with the DiLiCo current density mapping system and commercially available potentiostats. EST contributes its expertise in electrochemical process engineering and system characterization to accelerate the development of new materials and cell designs while optimizing electrolyzer lifetimes.
The project is strengthened through collaboration with the partners DiLiCo engineering GmbH and the Fuel Cell Technology Research Center (ZBT). DiLiCo is developing a novel digital-analog interface that combines spatially resolved impedance measurements with in situ current density measurements. ZBT is developing an innovative measurement tool for segmented current density measurements in fuel cells using additive manufacturing technologies. Together, the partners are creating a comprehensive platform for the in-depth analysis of galvanic cells—an important step toward more efficient and durable hydrogen technologies.
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