A device that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen with electricity. Electrolysis was demonstrated in 1800, weeks after Volta announced his pile, and electrolyzers are the key technology for producing hydrogen without fossil fuels: driven by renewable electricity they yield what energy agencies call green hydrogen, the intended feedstock for clean steel, fertilizer and long-duration storage.
Facts
Technology Type Invented YearNicholson and Carlisle electrolyzed water in 1800; industrial water electrolyzers date from around 1900. Classification
MaturityTRL 9: Actual System Proven in Operational Environment 1 Connections
Associated With
Source United States Department of Energy Official Site
Electrolyzers produce hydrogen rather than consume it; the association is production, not use.
Source International Energy Agency Official Site
Steam methane reforming and electrolysis are the two leading industrial hydrogen production methods.
Sources
1. Wikipedia: Electrolysis of water
WikipediaAlkaline electrolyzers are commercially proven industrial technologyView the Source 2. International Energy Agency Official Site
3. Encyclopedia Britannica
United States Department of Energy Official Site
US Department of EnergyAssociated With: Fuel Cell, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, Fuel CellsQuote, Associated With: Fuel Cell, Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, Fuel Cells
The protons migrate through the electrolyte to the cathode, where they unite with oxygen and the electrons to produce water and heat.
Reader Challenges (0)
No disputes yet. Spotted an error or a better source? Open the first one.
Sign in to dispute this or suggest a correction.