Evaluation of a PEM electrolyzer for marine applications

GREENSHIP is a three years project of the Italian Funds of Basic Research program (FIRB) started in 2007 and currently running. The topic of the project, in which CNR-ITAE is involved as coordinator, concerning renewable technologies for energy supply applied to the naval sector. The aim of the project is to reduce the emissions and increase the on board overall efficiency by specific actions. In particular, the activity was addressed towards the evaluation both of hydrogen production by an in-house PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolyser (9 cells of 100 cm2 geometrical area) and the interaction of this technology connected with renewable energy sources (wind and photovoltaic systems) applied on board (Fig. 1). Several aspects were investigated by specific tests carried out in a corrosive ambient that simulates the sea air (humidity, salinity, corrosive conditions etc.). In order to simulate the oxidizing atmosphere, a Dry Corrosion Test Cabinet (DCTC) was used to test MEAs and electrolyser components on the basis of specific international norms (ASTM standard). Both materials and components were characterized by electrochemical and physico-chemical analysis before and after the DCTC. Moreover, a desalinator plant, tailored for the specific application, was realized to produce water having a low ionic conductivity (< 5 µS) compatible with the PEM stack electrolyser needs. Finally, vibrational tests, simulating the sea waves behaviours, were conducted to evaluate the effects on the stack hardware