(Invited) Enhancing Alkaline Water Electrolyzers: Insights into Activation Protocols, Loading and Ionomer Effects

Alkaline water electrolyzers (AWEs) are playing an increasingly important role in the renewable energy landscape due to their scalability and independence from scarce materials. 1,2 This presentation will examine the various elements of AWE performance, emphasizing the critical role of activation protocols, loading dynamics, and ionomer characteristics. Our investigation examined activation protocols and deciphering insights into the electrochemical initiation processes that are critical to optimizing AWE performance. At the same time, we investigate the nuanced relationship between loading and efficiency seeking the optimal catalyst loading for enhanced hydrogen production while maintaining operational stability. In addition, the influence of ionomers is investigated to understand their role. By integrating these investigations, our work contributes to a holistic understanding of AWEs and provides practical insights to optimize their performance in renewable energy systems. References 1 Aili, D.; Kraglund, M. R.; Rajappan, S. C.; Serhiichuk, D.; Xia, Y.; Deimede, V.; Kallitsis, J.; Bae, C.; Jannasch, P.; Henkensmeier, D.; Jensen, J. O. Electrode Separators for the Next-Generation Alkaline Water Electrolyzers. ACS Energy Lett. 2023, 8, 1900– 1910 Karacan C., Lohmann-Richters F. P., Shviro M., Keeley G. P., Müller M., Carmo M., and Stolten D., J. Electrochem. Soc., 2022, 169, 054502