PEPR project
Development of electrolysis cells based on proton-conducting ceramics
Dates:
April 2022 – March 2027
Project coordinator:
ICGM UMR5253 (Université de Montpellier – CNRS – ENSCM)
Partner laboratories:
7 academic laboratories
IMN staff involved:
Eric QUAREZ
In the near future, the production of green hydrogen by electrolysis will play a major role in the decarbonization of industrial processes, the stability of electricity grids and the development of hydrogen mobility, provided that this technology is competitive (low cost) and efficient. Indeed, insofar as hydrogen is produced with high yields, low investment and operating costs, and a controlled carbon footprint, it will play a major role in the ecological transition.
Operating in the 400-600°C temperature range, devices incorporating proton conduction ceramics (PCEC: Proton Ceramic Electrolysis Cells) are particularly promising for several reasons: they produce dry hydrogen, are expected to be more durable than their high-temperature analogues, and feature reversibility and flexibility facilitated by their operating principle. Despite this strong potential, the development of PCECs remains limited compared with that of high-temperature devices based on anionic conduction. The aim of the PROTEC project is to develop PCEC cells with high performance (0.8 A/cm2 at 1.3 V at 600°C), durability (degradation rate < 2% / 1000h), and significant size (F = 25 mm then 50 mm). To achieve this objective, a sequence of processes will be developed for the manufacture of generation 1 cells, made from reference materials (Ni-BCZY, BCZY, BSCF); a progressive scale-up, integrating more functional components and interfaces, will then be carried out. Optimization of materials and assemblies will lead to Generation 2 cells with enhanced performance and durability. Particular attention will be paid to experimental development, standardization of manufacturing and testing protocols, and the development of dedicated, shared research tools and methodologies. The final deliverables of the PROTEC project will be a sequence of qualified manufacturing processes and high-performance, sustainable semi-industrial-sized cells. A short stack (3 cells), reversibility and long-life tests will be programmed on generation 2 cells. This project aims to consolidate the position of 8 laboratories associated with the CNRS, internationally recognized for their expertise in proton conduction ceramics, and to contribute to the emergence of a French hydrogen industry.
