Understanding phase interactions in the porous transport layer of polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysers

Project description

Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) water electrolysis is a promising technology for producing sustainable hydrogen gas as a green energy carrier. The efficiency of PEM electrolysis can be improved by optimising the proton exchange membrane (PEM) and the porous transport layer (PTL) that are crucial components of the system. The PTL provides a pathway for the transfer of reactants and products within the electrochemical cell, and it is known to play a critical role in determining the efficiency and durability of the cell. However, the understanding of the two-phase flow physics in the PTL is limited, and the existing models for describing the behaviour of water and gas within the PTL are oversimplified. To address this challenge, this project aims to develop a novel computational framework based on the phase field lattice Boltzmann (PF-LBM) method to model the complex fluid dynamics and transport phenomena in the PTL. The PF-LBM is a powerful method for simulating multiphase flows that allows for the direct calculation of interfacial dynamics and the incorporation of interfacial tension, which is critical for accurately predicting the behaviour of water and gas in the PTL. The project will involve extending the PF-LBM method to account for the transport and reactions of protons, electrons, and gas species in the PTL. The developed model will be validated against experimental data and used to investigate the impact of various design parameters, such as the microstructure of the PTL, the flow rate, and the current density, on the performance of the PEM electrolyser. By understanding the two-phase flow physics in the PTL, we can develop more efficient and durable PEM electrolysers for sustainable hydrogen production. The outcomes of this project will advance the fundamental understanding of the electrochemical systems and provide insights for the optimisation of PEM electrolysers for industrial-scale hydrogen production.

Outcomes

1. A detailed and validated numerical model of the PTL in PEM electrolysis, based on the phase field lattice Boltzmann method, which accounts for the transport and reactions of protons, electrons, and gas species.
2. A database of simulation results that explore the impact of various design parameters on the performance and durability of the PTL, such as the microstructure of the PTL, the flow rate, and the current density.
3. A comprehensive analysis of the fluid dynamics and transport phenomena in the PTL, including a detailed understanding of the impact of two-phase flow on the overall system performance.

Essential capabilities

Experience with numerical modelling, experience with computational fluid dynamics

Desireable capabilities

Knowledge of lattice Boltzmann methods and high performance computing

Expected qualifications (Course/Degrees etc.)

degrees in mechanical or chemical engineering. Degrees in mathematics will also be considered.

Additional information for applicants

note: i-students must have own scholarship to apply (CSIR, UCG-NET, etc)