Validation study for a 30 kW test bench for low-temperature electrolysis applications

The Joint Research Centre (JRC) belonging to the European Commission is committed to providing independent, evidence-based knowledge and science, supporting EU policies to positively impact society [1]. In the framework of the RePowerEU Plan, clean energy technologies are the focus [2]. With the existing test benches for various scales of low- and high-temperature applications (few hundred watts up to 100 kW) on the JRC Petten premises testing opportunities for developed fuel cell and electrolysis devices are provided. The test benches are uniquely designed and equipped with various sensors, valves, and water sampling possibilities to address a wide range of research questions for every electrolysis technology. All of them have Open Access possibilities if Horizon Europe eligibility is given. They can be used by other organisations and industrial partners (FCTEST [3] and future ELTEST) as well within the Cleanhypro [4]. With the delivery of a new 30 kW test bench dedicated for low-temperature electrolysis applications, this publication elaborates on a validation study for this test bench with the help of a Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis (PEMEL) stack. Capabilities of the test bench with proposed experimental campaigns, the accuracy of the results with existing harmonised testing protocols [5–7] and boundaries of the test bench are discussed. Results will be presented at the conference. With upscaling of the low-temperature technology and a discussion for a possible ban of PFAS [8], which is contained in the membranes of state-of-the-art PEMEL, the need for PFAS release measurements in wastewater streams is urgent. This and further experimental activities leading to new standardisation procedures or harmonised testing protocols will be the main planned tasks for the new test bench in the near future. Further examples for future experimental campaigns will be published shortly in a technical report (JRC 139829, to be published).

NOHL Markus;  BLAGOEVA Darina;  MALKOW Thomas;  PILENGA Alberto;  SATURNIO Antonio; 

2025-10-02

EFCF

JRC142682

https://www.efcf.com/proceedings,    https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC142682,