Key Features of Single-Element Cell Design in Green Hydrogen Technology

Developed in the 1970s and proven over decades in the chlor-alkali industry, thyssenkrupp nucera’s single-element cell design offers numerous benefits that enhance the durability, safety, and efficiency of electrolysis cells. Let’s dive into the details.

The Historical Foundation

The origins of the single-element design date back to the 1970s. In 1971, the first tests with perfluorinated cation exchange membranes replaced asbestos separators, leading to the development of specialized membrane cells. Patented in 1975 by Hoechst AG in Frankfurt, this innovation initially aimed to address the reliability issues and operational inefficiencies of conventional systems. The first-generation cell laid the groundwork for further advancements.

The first membrane electrolysis plant was built in Tofte, Norway, by Uhde. Following this collaboration, Uhde and Hoechst AG introduced several milestones, including a plant in Bergen op Zoom, Netherlands, the creation of the membrane bubble test, and additional plant constructions in India and Taiwan during the late 1980s. These achievements marked the beginning of a new era in electrolyzer technology, eventually leading to widespread adoption in the chlor-alkali industry.

Key Features and Benefits of the Single-Element Concept

Individual Cell Maintenance

One of the key features of the single-element concept is the ability to remove an individual cell from a stack. If there is an issue with a single cell, it can be isolated, removed, tested and repaired outside the electrolyzer, without disrupting the overall operation of the plant. This level of flexibility significantly reduces downtime and maintenance costs.

Enhanced Longevity and Reliability

The single-element design addresses durability and reliability concerns by allowing for individual sealing, maintenance, and replacement of cells. Proven over 30 years in the chlor-alkali industry, this design ensures long-term operational reliability and extends the lifespan of the electrolyzers.

Continuous Operation During Refurbishment

Individual cells can be removed and repaired without affecting the rest of the system. This means that after a cell has been removed, operation can continue as usual and maintain productivity and efficiency, even while undergoing maintenance.

Safety and Monitoring

Safety is a critical aspect of any industrial operation. The single-element concept enhances safety by enabling more precise monitoring of individual cells with our nucera evaluator. nucera evaluator protects customer assets with Cell Voltage Monitoring and electrical safety features, including SIL 2 and ex-zone compatibility. It offers rapid sampling rates, start-up support, performance analysis, and an asset manager tool for element assembly. This allows for quicker detection of potential issues, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall operational safety and performance.

Why Choose Our Single-Element Design?

Based on long-term technology experience, our single-element cell design offers a highly durable solution for the production of green hydrogen, whether it’s the ability to perform cell-level repairs, ensure continuous plant operation, or enhance safety through meticulous monitoring.