Electrochemical Energy Conversion
The Electrochemical Energy Conversion Section is focused on the development and in-depth understanding
of materials, processes and devices for the conversion of renewable energy into electricity or chemical
energy carriers. Especially in the context of a sustainable energy system utilizing hydrogen as an energy
carrier and its electrochemical energy conversion is of particular importance.
In this topical context our goal is the in-depth understanding of technologies like Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells (PEFC), Polymer Electrolyte Electrolyzer Cells (PEEC) for water electrolysis and processes like the co-electrolysis of CO2 and water, respectively.
The R&D strategy involves activities on four pathways: i) system, stack and cell engineering; ii) membrane development based on PSI’s own radiation-grafting technology and the development of cell components; iii) research in electrocatalysis and the reaction kinetics of the important reactions (e.g., the oxygen electrode reactions) for improved understanding of intrinsically limiting factors; and iv) the development and application of advanced in-situ diagnostic tools on stack, cell and component levels including analyses of the electrode-electrolyte interface.
In addition, we are working on new materials for advanced electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLC), which includes the application of ionic liquids or graphene-type carbons for high energy EDLCs.
In this topical context our goal is the in-depth understanding of technologies like Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells (PEFC), Polymer Electrolyte Electrolyzer Cells (PEEC) for water electrolysis and processes like the co-electrolysis of CO2 and water, respectively.
The R&D strategy involves activities on four pathways: i) system, stack and cell engineering; ii) membrane development based on PSI’s own radiation-grafting technology and the development of cell components; iii) research in electrocatalysis and the reaction kinetics of the important reactions (e.g., the oxygen electrode reactions) for improved understanding of intrinsically limiting factors; and iv) the development and application of advanced in-situ diagnostic tools on stack, cell and component levels including analyses of the electrode-electrolyte interface.
In addition, we are working on new materials for advanced electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLC), which includes the application of ionic liquids or graphene-type carbons for high energy EDLCs.
Projects and Partners
- DuraCAT
Highly Durable Oxide-based Catalysts for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells