Standard operating procedure for post-operation component disassembly and observation of benchtop water electrolyzer testing

Abstract

Post-operation component disassembly and observation of electrolyzer parts is useful in understanding the interactions of the components and the electrochemical environment beyond the systems electrochemical output. We report a standard protocol for post-operation component disassembly and observation, including directions for cell-component preservation, preliminary visual inspection of cell components, and a guide for the advanced inspection of specific components with suggestions for further analysis if necessary. The procedures outlined here allow for a standardized method that can be used and compared between different laboratories and for literature comparison to experimental results.

A Guide to Electrocatalyst Stability Using Lab-Scale Alkaline Water Electrolyzers

“…15 More protocols are necessary for specific electrolyzer evaluations, including separator stability and degradation mechanism studies. 13,16,23 We hope our work inspires further standardization efforts, advancing toward a comprehensive comparison platform in AWE.…”

Oxidative instability of ionomers in hydroxide-exchange-membrane water electrolyzers

“…After operation, cells were disassembled according to standard methods. 71 MEAs were quenched in 3 M NaCl solution overnight to exchange OH − for Cl − ions. The MEA components were then submerged in a beaker of 18.2 MΩ cm water and rinsed vigorously for 30 s before air drying at room temperature overnight.…”

A Review of Transition Metal Boride, Carbide, Pnictide, and Chalcogenide Water Oxidation Electrocatalysts

“…However, physical effects, such as intense bubble evolution under practical conditions, could also cause degradation . Other components can also be compromised, such as membranes or gaskets . Finally, researchers are encouraged to examine the temperature dependence of the electrocatalytic activity, as some materials could exhibit a different performance at high temperatures …”

“…1298 Other components can also be compromised, such as membranes or gaskets. 1299 Finally, researchers are encouraged to examine the temperature dependence of the electrocatalytic activity, as some materials could exhibit a different performance at high temperatures. 1286 Understanding the effect of impurities is also critical, especially for those studies proposing "metal-free" electrocatalysts with superior performance.…”