In this study, a small PEM water electrolysis single cell set up is utilized to extract information about degradation mechanisms. The major parameter of interest is the operational condition, which is changed from constant to cycling current input signal throughout a period of just over 1000h. The cell shows a high reversible share of the voltage increase at constant operation, which builds up slowly and can be recovered through a short interruption of cell operation. Impedance measurements reveal a considerable change in ohmic contributions as well as electrochemical performance over time. The model supported IV curve analysis backs the impedance data and reveals an increase in contact resistances. At the same time, the electrochemical surface area on both electrodes is reduced. The results suggest that dynamic operation may be beneficial for cell performance and therefore operational cost, while a degradation rate of 164.1µV*h −1 was calculated.
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