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Ellipsometry-based approach for the characterization of mesoporous thin films for H2 technologies
(2021)
Porous thin layer materials are gaining importance in different fields of technology and pose a challenge to the accurate determination of materials properties important for their function. In this work, we demonstrate a hybrid measurement technique using ellipsometry together with other independent methods for validation. Ellipsometry provides information about the porosity of different mesoporous films (PtRuNP/OMC = 45%; IrOx = 46%) as well as about the pore size (pore radius of ca. 5 nm for PtRuNP/OMC). In addition, the electronic structure of a material, such as intraband transitions of a mesoporous IrOx film, can be identified, which can be used to better understand the mechanisms of chemical processes. In addition, we show that ellipsometry can be used as a scalable imaging and visualization method for quality assurance in production. These require accurate and traceable measurements, with reference materials playing an important role that include porosity and other related properties. We show that our novel analytical methods are useful for improving analytical work in this entire field.
Hydrogen features a very high specific energy density and is therefore a promising candidate for clean fuel from renewable resources. Water electrolysis can convert electrical energy into storable and transportable hydrogen gas. Under acidic conditions, platinum is the most active and stable monometallic catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Yet, platinum is rare and needs to be used efficiently. Here, we report a synthesis concept for colloidal bimetallic platinum–ruthenium and rhodium–ruthenium nanoparticles (PtRuNP, RhRuNP) and their incorporation into ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) films. The films exhibit high surface area, good electrical conductivity and well-dispersed nanoparticles inside the mesopores. The nanoparticles retain their size, crystallinity and composition during carbonization. In the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), PtRuNP/OMC catalyst films show up to five times higher activity per Pt than Pt/C/Nafion® and PtRu/C/Nafion® reference catalysts.
At Juelich Research Center the prototype of an alkaline 120-bar electrolyser has been developed and built. Constructive and process-engineering measures must be taken to ensure the safe operation of such facilities. Potential hazards occur due to the high operating pressure in conjunction with the reactivity of the product gases and the electrolyte. First of all, the operating mode and technical features of the Juelich high-pressure electrolyser will be dealt with. Within the framework of a parametric study, the potential for weight reduction of the prototype while observing the rules for pressure vessel design will be shown. The Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing in Berlin has performed measurements concerning the explosion limits of H2/O2 mixtures at different temperatures and pressures up to 200 bars. At an electrolysis test rig of IWV-3, which can also be operated up to 200 bars, investigations were carried out concerning the gas composition on the H2 and O2 path under different operating conditions. These measurement series were compared to the explosion limits determined and evaluated to derive safety measures required for the operation of high-pressure electrolysers.