1
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Zhang P, Chen C, Feng M, Sun C, Xu X. Hydroxide and Hydronium Ions Modulate the Dynamic Evolution of Nitrogen Nanobubbles in Water. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:19537-19546. [PMID: 38949461 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
It has been widely recognized that the pH environment influences the nanobubble dynamics and hydroxide ions adsorbed on the surface may be responsible for the long-term survival of the nanobubbles. However, understanding the distribution of hydronium and hydroxide ions in the vicinity of a bulk nanobubble surface at a microscopic scale and the consequent impact of these ions on the nanobubble behavior remains a challenging endeavor. In this study, we carried out deep potential molecular dynamics simulations to explore the behavior of a nitrogen nanobubble under neutral, acidic, and alkaline conditions and the inherent mechanism, and we also conducted a theoretical thermodynamic and dynamic analysis to address constraints related to simulation duration. Our simulations and theoretical analyses demonstrate a trend of nanobubble dissolution similar to that observed experimentally, emphasizing the limited dissolution of bulk nanobubbles in alkaline conditions, where hydroxide ions tend to reside slightly farther from the nanobubble surface than hydronium ions, forming more stable hydrogen bond networks that shield the nanobubble from dissolution. In acidic conditions, the hydronium ions preferentially accumulating at the nanobubble surface in an orderly manner drive nanobubble dissolution to increase the entropy of the system, and the dissolved nitrogen molecules further strengthen the hydrogen bond networks of systems by providing a hydrophobic environment for hydronium ions, suggesting both entropy and enthalpy effects contribute to the instability of nanobubbles under acidic conditions. These results offer fresh insights into the double-layer distribution of hydroxide and hydronium near the nitrogen-water interface that influences the dynamic behavior of bulk nanobubbles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengchao Zhang
- Center for Combustion Energy, Department of Energy and Power Engineering, and Key Laboratory for Thermal Science and Power Engineering of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Changsheng Chen
- Center for Combustion Energy, Department of Energy and Power Engineering, and Key Laboratory for Thermal Science and Power Engineering of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Muye Feng
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Center for Combustion Energy, Department of Energy and Power Engineering, and Key Laboratory for Thermal Science and Power Engineering of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Aerospace Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xuefei Xu
- Center for Combustion Energy, Department of Energy and Power Engineering, and Key Laboratory for Thermal Science and Power Engineering of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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2
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Chen Z, Li L, Chu Y, Zhao F, Zhu Y, Tong S, Zheng H. Bio-Inspired Superhydrophilic Self-Assembled Coronavirus-Like Pt-WC/CNT for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309675. [PMID: 38263847 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
This study presents a novel approach to enhance the catalytic activity of composite materials by promoting active surface exposure and improving hydrogen transfer performance. Through a self-assembly route involving tailored gas-solid and galvanic replacement reactions, Pt-WC/CNT catalysts with superhydrophilicity and coronavirus-like structure are synthesized. These unique structural features contribute to a remarkable enhancement in the electrocatalytic performance of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Notably, the Pt-WC/CNT catalyst exhibits an outstanding intrinsic activity and efficient bubble transfer properties, leading to a high turnover frequency of 34.97 H2·s-1 at an overpotential of 100 mV. This value is 4.8 times higher than that achieved by commercial Pt/C catalysts (7.30 H2·s-1), establishing Pt-WC/CNT as one of the most active catalysts reported to date. Moreover, the combination of gas-solid and galvanic replacement reactions in the synthesis process offers a scalable route for the production of Pt-loading controllable composite catalysts, thus challenging the dominance of commercial Pt/C catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyang Chen
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Lingtong Li
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Youqun Chu
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Fengming Zhao
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Yinghong Zhu
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Shaoping Tong
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Huajun Zheng
- Cooperation Base of Energy Materials and Application, Petroleum and Chemical Industry Key Laboratory of Organic Electrochemical Synthesis, College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
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3
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Zhao P, Gong S, Zhang C, Chen S, Cheng P. Roles of Wettability and Wickability on Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reactions. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:27898-27907. [PMID: 38749009 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c02428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Bubble dynamics significantly impact mass transfer and energy conversion in electrochemical gas evolution reactions. Micro-/nanostructured surfaces with extreme wettability have been employed as gas-evolving electrodes to promote bubble departure and decrease the bubble-induced overpotential. However, effects of the electrodes' wickability on the electrochemical reaction performances remain elusive. In this work, hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performances are experimentally investigated using micropillar array electrodes with varying interpillar spacings, and effects of the electrodes' wettability, wickability as well as bubble adhesion are discussed. A deep learning-based object detection model was used to obtain bubble counts and bubble departure size distributions. We show that microstructures on the electrode have little effect on the total bubble counts and bubble size distribution characteristics at low current densities. At high current densities, however, micropillar array electrodes have much higher total bubble counts and smaller bubble departure sizes compared with the flat electrode. We also demonstrate that surface wettability is a critical factor influencing HER performances under low current densities, where bubbles exist in an isolated regime. Under high current densities, where bubbles are in an interacting regime, the wickability of the micropillar array electrodes emerges as a determining factor. This work elucidates the roles of surface wettability and wickability on enhancing electrochemical performances, providing guidelines for the optimal design of micro-/nanostructured electrodes in various gas evolution reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Zhao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shuai Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Paris Elite Institute of Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Siliang Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ping Cheng
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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4
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Zhang Y, Zhu X, Wood JA, Lohse D. Threshold current density for diffusion-controlled stability of electrolytic surface nanobubbles. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2321958121. [PMID: 38748584 PMCID: PMC11126992 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2321958121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the stability mechanism of surface micro/nanobubbles adhered to gas-evolving electrodes is essential for improving the efficiency of water electrolysis, which is known to be hindered by the bubble coverage on electrodes. Using molecular simulations, the diffusion-controlled evolution of single electrolytic nanobubbles on wettability-patterned nanoelectrodes is investigated. These nanoelectrodes feature hydrophobic islands as preferential nucleation sites and allow the growth of nanobubbles in the pinning mode. In these simulations, a threshold current density distinguishing stable nanobubbles from unstable nanobubbles is found. When the current density remains below the threshold value, nucleated nanobubbles grow to their equilibrium states, maintaining their nanoscopic size. However, for the current density above the threshold value, nanobubbles undergo unlimited growth and can eventually detach due to buoyancy. Increasing the pinning length of nanobubbles increases the degree of nanobubble instability. By connecting the current density with the local gas oversaturation, an extension of the stability theory for surface nanobubbles [Lohse and Zhang, Phys. Rev. E 91, 031003(R) (2015)] accurately predicts the nanobubble behavior found in molecular simulations, including equilibrium contact angles and the threshold current density. For larger systems that are not accessible to molecular simulations, continuum numerical simulations with the finite difference method combined with the immersed boundary method are performed, again demonstrating good agreement between numerics and theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Zhang
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center Twente for Complex Fluid Dynamics and Johannes Martinus Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, 7500 AEEnschede, The Netherlands
| | - Xiaojue Zhu
- Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research, 37077Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jeffery A. Wood
- Membrane Science and Technology Cluster, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente, 7500 AEEnschede, The Netherlands
| | - Detlef Lohse
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center Twente for Complex Fluid Dynamics and Johannes Martinus Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, 7500 AEEnschede, The Netherlands
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, 37077Göttingen, Germany
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5
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Bashkatov A, Park S, Demirkır Ç, Wood JA, Koper MTM, Lohse D, Krug D. Performance Enhancement of Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution through Coalescence-Induced Bubble Dynamics. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10177-10186. [PMID: 38538570 PMCID: PMC11009962 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The evolution of electrogenerated gas bubbles during water electrolysis can significantly hamper the overall process efficiency. Promoting the departure of electrochemically generated bubbles during (water) electrolysis is therefore beneficial. For a single bubble, a departure from the electrode surface occurs when buoyancy wins over the downward-acting forces (e.g., contact, Marangoni, and electric forces). In this work, the dynamics of a pair of H2 bubbles produced during the hydrogen evolution reaction in 0.5 M H2SO4 using a dual platinum microelectrode system is systematically studied by varying the electrode distance and the cathodic potential. By combining high-speed imaging and electrochemical analysis, we demonstrate the importance of bubble-bubble interactions in the departure process. We show that bubble coalescence may lead to substantially earlier bubble departure as compared to buoyancy effects alone, resulting in considerably higher reaction rates at a constant potential. However, due to continued mass input and conservation of momentum, repeated coalescence events with bubbles close to the electrode may drive departed bubbles back to the surface beyond a critical current, which increases with the electrode spacing. The latter leads to the resumption of bubble growth near the electrode surface, followed by buoyancy-driven departure. While less favorable at small electrode spacing, this configuration proves to be very beneficial at larger separations, increasing the mean current up to 2.4 times compared to a single electrode under the conditions explored in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandr Bashkatov
- Physics
of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics and
J. M. Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, Enschede 7500 AE, Netherlands
| | - Sunghak Park
- Leiden
Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden 2333 CC, Netherlands
| | - Çayan Demirkır
- Physics
of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics and
J. M. Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, Enschede 7500 AE, Netherlands
| | - Jeffery A. Wood
- Soft
Matter, Fluidics and Interfaces, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology,
J. M. Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, Enschede 7500 AE, Netherlands
| | - Marc T. M. Koper
- Leiden
Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden 2333 CC, Netherlands
| | - Detlef Lohse
- Physics
of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics and
J. M. Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, Enschede 7500 AE, Netherlands
- Max
Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Dominik Krug
- Physics
of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics and
J. M. Burgers Centre for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, Enschede 7500 AE, Netherlands
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6
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Jeong S, Kim U, Lee S, Zhang Y, Son E, Choi KJ, Han YK, Baik JM, Park H. Superaerophobic/Superhydrophilic Multidimensional Electrode System for High-Current-Density Water Electrolysis. ACS NANO 2024; 18:7558-7569. [PMID: 38420914 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c12533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Water electrolysis is emerging as a promising renewable-energy technology for the green production of hydrogen, which is a representative and reliable clean energy source. From economical and industrial perspectives, the development of earth-abundant non-noble metal-based and bifunctional catalysts, which can simultaneously exhibit high catalytic activities and stabilities for both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), is critical; however, to date, these types of catalysts have not been constructed, particularly, for high-current-density water electrolysis at the industrial level. This study developed a heterostructured zero-dimensional (0D)-one-dimensional (1D) PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+δ (PBSCF)-Ni3S2 as a self-supported catalytic electrode via interface and morphology engineering. This unique heterodimensional nanostructure of the PBSCF-Ni3S2 system demonstrates superaerophobic/superhydrophilic features and maximizes the exposure of the highly active heterointerface, endowing the PBSCF-Ni3S2 electrode with outstanding electrocatalytic performances in both HER and OER and exceptional operational stability during the overall water electrolysis at high current densities (500 h at 500 mA cm-2). This study provides important insights into the development of catalytic electrodes for efficient and stable large-scale hydrogen production systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seulgi Jeong
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Ungsoo Kim
- Department of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan 44919, Korea
| | - Sangjin Lee
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Yihan Zhang
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbin Son
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Jin Choi
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Kyu Han
- Department of Energy and Materials Engineering, Dongguk University-Seoul, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Min Baik
- School of Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- SKKU Institute of Energy Science and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyesung Park
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Department of Integrative Energy Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
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7
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He Y, Tan P. "Bubble-Diode" Breathable Electrodes for Fast Gas Transport. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202303477. [PMID: 38091241 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202303477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Bubbles arising from wild gas evolution commonly exist in electrochemical systems, particularly in water electrolysis and rechargeable aqueous batteries (e. g., Zn-air batteries). Substantial energy dissipation occurs due to the obstruction of active sites and ion-conducting pathways by evolving bubbles. Efforts are made to elucidate effective strategies for fast gas transport, most of which focus on minimizing bubble size and facilitating their timely detachment through complex techniques such as constructing super-hydrophilic nano-structure electrodes, flowing electrolytes, and ultrasonic oscillation. Recently, an innovative, facile, and highly efficient method utilizing a breathable electrode design to promote gaseous molecules to the external environment emerges as a promising approach since it avoids remarkable bubble accumulation while remaining free of additional accessories. This paper highlights the origin and evolution of this promising design. Starting with introducing the basic concept of traditional breathable electrodes based on hydrophobic polymer networks and discussing the current progress made in underlying mechanisms, a detailed description of the advanced design inspired by a "bubble-diode" concept with superior breathability follows. This Concept aims to contribute to a deep understanding of this technology and paves the way for further advancements in this renewable energy era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi He
- Department of Thermal Science and Energy Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Peng Tan
- Department of Thermal Science and Energy Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, 230026, Anhui, China
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8
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Kumar N, Krause L, Wondrak T, Eckert S, Eckert K, Gumhold S. Robust Reconstruction of the Void Fraction from Noisy Magnetic Flux Density Using Invertible Neural Networks. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:1213. [PMID: 38400371 PMCID: PMC10893175 DOI: 10.3390/s24041213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Electrolysis stands as a pivotal method for environmentally sustainable hydrogen production. However, the formation of gas bubbles during the electrolysis process poses significant challenges by impeding the electrochemical reactions, diminishing cell efficiency, and dramatically increasing energy consumption. Furthermore, the inherent difficulty in detecting these bubbles arises from the non-transparency of the wall of electrolysis cells. Additionally, these gas bubbles induce alterations in the conductivity of the electrolyte, leading to corresponding fluctuations in the magnetic flux density outside of the electrolysis cell, which can be measured by externally placed magnetic sensors. By solving the inverse problem of the Biot-Savart Law, we can estimate the conductivity distribution as well as the void fraction within the cell. In this work, we study different approaches to solve the inverse problem including Invertible Neural Networks (INNs) and Tikhonov regularization. Our experiments demonstrate that INNs are much more robust to solving the inverse problem than Tikhonov regularization when the level of noise in the magnetic flux density measurements is not known or changes over space and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant Kumar
- Institute of Software and Multimedia Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01187 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Lukas Krause
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany; (L.K.); (K.E.)
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (T.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Thomas Wondrak
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (T.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Sven Eckert
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (T.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Kerstin Eckert
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany; (L.K.); (K.E.)
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (T.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Stefan Gumhold
- Institute of Software and Multimedia Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01187 Dresden, Germany;
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Heinrich J, Ränke F, Schwarzenberger K, Yang X, Baumann R, Marzec M, Lasagni AF, Eckert K. Functionalization of Ti64 via Direct Laser Interference Patterning and Its Influence on Wettability and Oxygen Bubble Nucleation. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:2918-2929. [PMID: 38295345 PMCID: PMC10867896 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
The nucleation of bubbles on solid surfaces is an important phenomenon in nature and technological processes like electrolysis. During proton-exchange membrane electrolysis, the nucleation and separation of the electrically nonconductive oxygen in the anodic cycle plays a crucial role to minimize the overpotential it causes in the system. This increases the efficiency of the process, making renewable energy sources and the "power-to-gas" strategy more viable. A promising approach is to optimize gas separation by surface functionalization in order to apply a more advantageous interface to industrial materials. In this work, the connection between the wettability and bubble nucleation of oxygen is investigated. For tailoring the wettability of Ti64 substrates, the direct laser interference patterning method is applied. A laser source with a wavelength of 1064 nm and a pulse duration of 12 ps is used to generate periodic pillar-like structures with different depths up to ∼5 μm. The resulting surface properties are characterized by water contact angle measurement, scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, and X-ray photon spectroscopy. It was possible to generate structures with a water contact angle ranging from 20° up to nearly superhydrophobic conditions. The different wettabilities are validated based on X-ray photon spectroscopy and the different elemental composition of the samples. The results indicate that the surface character of the substrate adapts depending on the surrounding media and needs more time to reach a steady state for deeper structures. A custom setup is used to expose the functionalized surfaces to oxygen-oversaturated solutions. It is shown that a higher hydrophobicity of the structured surface yields a stronger interaction with the dissolved gas. This significantly enhances the oxygen nucleation up to nearly 350% by generating approximately 20 times more nucleation spots, but also smaller bubble sizes and a reduced detachment rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Heinrich
- Institute
of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstr. 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- Institute
of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 14, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabian Ränke
- Institute
of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, Technische Universität Dresden, George-Baehr-Str. 3c, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Karin Schwarzenberger
- Institute
of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstr. 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- Institute
of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 14, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Xuegeng Yang
- Institute
of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstr. 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- Institute
of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 14, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Robert Baumann
- Institute
of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, Technische Universität Dresden, George-Baehr-Str. 3c, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Mateusz Marzec
- Academic
Centre for Materials and Nanotechnology, AGH University of Krakow, Av. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrés Fabián Lasagni
- Institute
of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, Technische Universität Dresden, George-Baehr-Str. 3c, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Fraunhofer
Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS, Winterbergstraße 28, 01277 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kerstin Eckert
- Institute
of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstr. 400, Dresden 01328, Germany
- Institute
of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 14, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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10
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Xu B, Meng X, Huang J, Shan Y, Qiu D, Chen Q. Revealing the Heterogeneous Bubble Nucleation at Individual Silica Nanoparticles. Anal Chem 2024. [PMID: 38319065 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c04411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Deep understanding of the bubble nucleation process is universally important in systems, from chemical engineering to materials. However, due to its nanoscale and transient nature, effective probing of nucleation behavior with a high spatiotemporal resolution is prohibitively challenging. We previously reported the measurement of a single nanobubble nucleation at a nanoparticle using scanning electrochemical cell microscopy, where the bubble nucleation and formation were inferred from the voltammetric responses. Here, we continue the study of heterogeneous bubble nucleation at interfaces by regulating the local nanostructures using silica nanoparticles with a distinct surface morphology. It is demonstrated that, compared to the smooth spherical silica nanoparticles, the raspberry-like nanoparticles can further significantly reduce the nucleation energy barrier, with a critical peak current about 23% of the bare carbon surfaces. This study advances our understanding of how surface nanostructures direct the heterogeneous nucleation process and may offer a new strategy for surface engineering in gas involved energy conversion systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaohui Meng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Juan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yun Shan
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Dong Qiu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Qianjin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Science and Technology of Eco-Textile, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
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11
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Zhao Z, Ma Y, Xie Z, Wu F, Fan J, Kou J. Molecular Mechanisms of the Generation and Accumulation of Gas at the Interface. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024. [PMID: 38293869 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Gas-evolving reactions are widespread in chemical and energy fields. However, the generated gas will accumulate at the interface, which reduces the rate of gas generation. Understanding the microscopic processes of the generation and accumulation of gas at the interface is crucial for improving the efficiency of gas generation. Here, we develop an algorithm to reproduce the process of catalytic gas generation at the molecular scale based on the all-atom molecular dynamics simulations and obtain the quantitative evolution of the gas generation, which agrees well with the experimental results. In addition, we demonstrate that under an external electric field, the generated gas molecules do not accumulate at the electrode surface, which implies that the electric field can significantly increase the rate of the gas generation. The results suggest that the external electric field changes the structure of the water molecules near the electrode surface, making it difficult for gas molecules to accumulate on the electrode surface. Furthermore, it is found that gas desorption from the electrode surface is an entropy-driven process, and its accumulation at the electrode surface depends mainly on the competition between the entropy and the enthalpy of the water molecules under the influence of the electric field. These results provide deep insight into gas generation and inhibition of gas accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhigao Zhao
- Institute of Condensed Matter Physics, Zhejiang Institute of Photoelectronics & Zhejiang Institute for Advanced Light Source, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Yunqiu Ma
- Institute of Condensed Matter Physics, Zhejiang Institute of Photoelectronics & Zhejiang Institute for Advanced Light Source, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Zhang Xie
- Institute of Condensed Matter Physics, Zhejiang Institute of Photoelectronics & Zhejiang Institute for Advanced Light Source, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Fengmin Wu
- Institute of Condensed Matter Physics, Zhejiang Institute of Photoelectronics & Zhejiang Institute for Advanced Light Source, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Jintu Fan
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Department of Fiber Science and Apparel Design, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-4401, United States
| | - Jianlong Kou
- Institute of Condensed Matter Physics, Zhejiang Institute of Photoelectronics & Zhejiang Institute for Advanced Light Source, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, China
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12
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Ma Y, Huang M, Mutschke G, Zhang X. Nucleation of surface nanobubbles in electrochemistry: Analysis with nucleation theorem. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 654:859-867. [PMID: 37898070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.10.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
The formation of single bubbles at nanoelectrodes during electrochemical reactions allows to accurately identify the critical nucleus for bubble formation. As demonstrated before, combining nanoelectrode experiments and an analysis approach based on classical nucleation theory (CNT) delivers useful insight into bubble nucleation. In this work we propose an alternative approach to analyze the critical nuclei by applying the nucleation theorem (NT), which is able to overcome the inherent shortcomings of CNT. The size of the critical nucleus can be calculated more accurately by fitting experimental data in a simple form of the NT. Simulating the local gas concentration using a finite element approach, and considering the effect of gas oversaturation on the interfacial tension and the real gas compressibility, we obtain a more realistic estimation of the critical nuclei morphology. With the NT-based analysis presented, we re-analyze the nucleation data reported before. The properties of the critical nuclei obtained here are roughly consistent with those obtained from the CNT-based approach. In addition, we confirm that the critical nucleus for bubble formation in high gas oversaturation is featured with a contact angle much larger than Young's contact angle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqing Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Mengyuan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China; Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden 01328, Germany.
| | - Gerd Mutschke
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Dresden 01328, Germany
| | - Xianren Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China.
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13
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Wu R, Hu Z, Zhang H, Wang J, Qin C, Zhou Y. Bubbles in Porous Electrodes for Alkaline Water Electrolysis. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:721-733. [PMID: 38147650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Porous electrodes with high specific surface areas have been commonly employed for alkaline water electrolysis. The gas bubbles generated in electrodes due to water electrolysis, however, can screen the reaction sites and hinder reactant transport, thereby deteriorating the performance of electrodes. Hence, an in-depth understanding of the behavior of bubbles in porous electrodes is of great importance. Nevertheless, since porous electrodes are opaque, direct observation of bubbles therein is still a challenge. In this work, we have successfully captured the behavior of bubbles in the pores at the side surfaces of nickel-based porous electrodes. Two types of porous electrodes are employed: the ones with straight pores along the gravitational direction and the ones with tortuous pores. In the porous electrodes with tortuous pores, the moving bubbles are prone to collide with the solid matrix, thereby leading to the accumulation of bubbles in the pores and hence bubble trapping. By contrast, in the porous electrodes with straight pores, bubbles are seldom trapped; and when two bubbles near the wall surfaces coalesce, the merged bubble can jump away from the wall surfaces, releasing more active surfaces for reaction. As a result, the porous electrodes with straight pores, although with lower specific surface areas, are superior to those with tortuous pores. The relationship among the pore structures of porous electrodes, bubble behavior, and electrode performance disclosed in this work provides deep insights into the design of porous electrodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- China-UK Low Carbon College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zhihao Hu
- China-UK Low Carbon College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Haojing Zhang
- China-UK Low Carbon College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jinqing Wang
- College of Metrology and Measurement Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Chaozhong Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Ye Zhou
- China-UK Low Carbon College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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14
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Su H, Sun J, Wang C, Wang H. Temperature impacts on the growth of hydrogen bubbles during ultrasonic vibration-enhanced hydrogen generation. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2024; 102:106734. [PMID: 38128391 PMCID: PMC10772823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2023.106734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
To improve the hydrogen precipitation performance on the surface of the catalytic layer of the proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen cathode, ultrasonic vibration was employed to accelerate the detachment of hydrogen bubbles on the surface of the catalytic layer. Based on the energy and mechanical analyses of nano and microbubbles, the hydrogen bubble generation mechanism and the effect of temperature on bubble parameters during the evolution process when the ultrasonic field is coupled with the electric field are investigated. The nucleation frequency of the hydrogen bubbles, the relationship between the pressure and temperature and the operating temperature during the generation and detachment of bubbles as well as the detachment radius of bubbles under the action of the ultrasonic field are obtained. The effects of ultrasound and temperature on hydrogen production were verified by visual experiments. The results show that the operating temperature affects the nucleation, growth, and detachment processes of hydrogen bubbles. The effect of temperature on the nucleation frequency of bubbles mainly comes from the Gibbs free energy required for the electrolysis reaction. The bubble radius and growth rate are both related to the temperature to the power of one-third. Ultrasonic waves enhance the separation of hydrogen bubbles from the catalyst surface by acoustic cavitation and impact effects. An increase in the working temperature reduces the activation energy barriers to be overcome for the electrolysis reaction of water, which together with a decrease in the Gibbs free energy and the surface tension coefficient, leads to an increase in the nucleation frequency of the catalytic layer and a decrease in the radius of bubble detachment, and thus improves the hydrogen precipitation performance. Visualization experiments show that in actual PEM hydrogen production, ultrasonic intensification can promote the formation of nucleation sites. The ultrasonic induced fine bubble flow not only has a drag effect on the bubble, but also intensifies the polymerization growth of the bubble due to the impact of the fine bubble flow, thus speeding up the detachment of the bubble, shortening the covering time of the hydrogen bubble on the surface of the catalytic electrode, reducing the activation voltage loss and improve the hydrogen production efficiency of PEM. The experimental results show that when the electrolyte is 60°C, the maximum hydrogen production efficiency of ultrasound is increased by 7.34%, and the average hydrogen production efficiency is increased by 5.83%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqian Su
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China; Building Environment and Energy Power Engineering Experimental Center, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Jindong Sun
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China; Building Environment and Energy Power Engineering Experimental Center, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Caizhu Wang
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China; Building Environment and Energy Power Engineering Experimental Center, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Haofeng Wang
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China; Building Environment and Energy Power Engineering Experimental Center, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing 100044, China
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15
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Wang J, Liang C, Ma X, Liu P, Pan W, Zhu H, Guo Z, Sui Y, Liu H, Liu L, Yang C. Dynamically Adaptive Bubbling for Upgrading Oxygen Evolution Reaction Using Lamellar Fern-Like Alloy Aerogel Self-Standing Electrodes. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307925. [PMID: 37742133 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Adopting renewable electricity to produce "green" hydrogen has been a critical challenge because at a high current density the mass transfer capability of most catalytic electrodes deteriorates significantly. Herein, a unique lamellar fern-like alloy aerogel (LFA) electrode, showing a unique dynamically adaptive bubbling capability and can effectively avoid stress concentration caused by bubble aggregation is reported. The LFA electrode is intrinsically highly catalytic-active and shows a highly porous, resilient, hierarchically ordered, and well-percolated conductive network. It not only shows superior gas evacuation capability but also exhibits significantly improved stability at high current densities, showing the record lowest oxygen evolution reaction (OER) overpotential of 244 mV at 1000 mA cm-2 and stably over 6000 h. With the merits of mechanical robustness, excellent electron transport, and efficient bubble evacuation, LFA can be self-standing catalytic electrode and gas diffusion layers in anion-exchange-membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE), which can achieve 3000 mA cm-2 at a low voltage of 1.88 V and can sustain stable electrolysis at 2000 mA cm-2 for over 1300 h. This strategy can be extended to various gas evolution reactions as a general design rule for multiphase catalysis applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Caiwu Liang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, 80 Wood Lane, London, W120BZ, UK
| | - Xuyang Ma
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Peng Liu
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Weisheng Pan
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Haojie Zhu
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zhenbin Guo
- Institute of Semiconductor Manufacturing Research, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, P. R. China
| | - Yiming Sui
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331-4003, USA
| | - Hongjie Liu
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Le Liu
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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16
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Wang J, Wu G, Feng G, Li G, Wei Y, Li S, Mao J, Liu X, Chen A, Song Y, Dong X, Wei W, Chen W. Electrochemical Epoxidation of Propylene to Propylene Oxide via Halogen-Mediated Systems. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:46569-46576. [PMID: 38107883 PMCID: PMC10720275 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c05508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
As one of the most important derivatives of propylene, the production of propylene oxide (PO) is severely restricted. The traditional chlorohydrin process is being eliminated due to environmental concerns, while processes such as Halcon and hydrogen peroxide epoxidation are limited by cost and efficiency, making it difficult to meet market demand. Therefore, achieving PO production through clean and efficient technologies has received extensive attention, and halogen-mediated electrochemical epoxidation of alkene is considered to be a desirable technology for the production of alkylene oxide. In this work, we used electrochemical methods to synthesize PO in halogen-mediated systems based on a RuO2-loaded Ti (RuO2/Ti) anode and screened out two potential mediated systems of chlorine (Cl) and bromine (Br) for the electrosynthesis of PO. At a current density of 100 mA·cm-2, both Cl- and Br-mediated systems delivered PO Faradaic efficiencies of more than 80%. In particular, the Br-mediated system obtained PO Faradaic efficiencies of more than 90% at lower potentials (≤1.5 V vs RHE) with better electrode structure durability. Furthermore, detailed product distribution investigations and DFT calculations suggested hypohalous acid molecules as key reaction intermediates in both Cl- and Br-mediated systems. This work presents a green and efficient PO production route with halogen-mediated electrochemical epoxidation of propylene driven by renewable electricity, exhibiting promising potential to replace the traditional chlorohydrin process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangjiang Wang
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Gangfeng Wu
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Guanghui Feng
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Guihua Li
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Yiheng Wei
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Shoujie Li
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
| | - Jianing Mao
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohu Liu
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- School
of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech
University, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Aohui Chen
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- School
of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech
University, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Yanfang Song
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Dong
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wei
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
- School
of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech
University, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Wei Chen
- Low-Carbon
Conversion Science and Engineering Center, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201210, P.R. China
- University
of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
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17
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Sangtam BT, Park H. Review on Bubble Dynamics in Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis: Towards Optimal Green Hydrogen Yield. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:2234. [PMID: 38138403 PMCID: PMC10745635 DOI: 10.3390/mi14122234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Water electrolysis using a proton exchange membrane (PEM) holds substantial promise to produce green hydrogen with zero carbon discharge. Although various techniques are available to produce hydrogen gas, the water electrolysis process tends to be more cost-effective with greater advantages for energy storage devices. However, one of the challenges associated with PEM water electrolysis is the accumulation of gas bubbles, which can impair cell performance and result in lower hydrogen output. Achieving an in-depth knowledge of bubble dynamics during electrolysis is essential for optimal cell performance. This review paper discusses bubble behaviors, measuring techniques, and other aspects of bubble dynamics in PEM water electrolysis. It also examines bubble behavior under different operating conditions, as well as the system geometry. The current review paper will further improve the understanding of bubble dynamics in PEM water electrolysis, facilitating more competent, inexpensive, and feasible green hydrogen production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanwook Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Soonchunhyang University, 22 Soonchunhyang-ro, Asan 31538, Chungnam, Republic of Korea;
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18
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Wan S, Zhang H, Ye K, Li J, He Y, Ge X, Xu T, Cai WB, Lin M, Jiang K. Improving the Efficiencies of Water Splitting and CO 2 Electrolysis by Anodic O 2 Bubble Management. J Phys Chem Lett 2023:11217-11223. [PMID: 38055915 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.3c02902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
This study systematically explores the impact of the anodic flow field design on the transport of O2 bubble and subsequent energy efficiency in electrolysis devices. Two distinct configurations, namely a conventional serpentine flow panel and an interdigitated flow panel, are integrated at the anode side of the electrolyzer. The interdigitated flow field exhibits superior performance in both alkaline water splitting and CO2 reduction despite the experience of an increased pressure drop. Numerical simulations reveal that the enhanced convective flow of the O2 bubbles induced by a forced anolyte flow through the porous electrode within the interdigitated panel design resulted in a 3 orders of magnitude increase in the level of the O2 bubble transport compared to the serpentine configuration. These findings not only underscore the significance of flow field design on bubble management but also provide a basis for advancing the electrolysis efficiency at industrial-level current densities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shusheng Wan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Huanlei Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, SUSTech Energy Institute for Carbon Neutrality, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ke Ye
- Interdisciplinary Research Center, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jieyang Li
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, SUSTech Energy Institute for Carbon Neutrality, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yucheng He
- Interdisciplinary Research Center, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaolin Ge
- Key Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemistry for Energy Materials, School of Chemistry and Material Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Tongwen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemistry for Energy Materials, School of Chemistry and Material Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Wen-Bin Cai
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Meng Lin
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, SUSTech Energy Institute for Carbon Neutrality, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Kun Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Interdisciplinary Research Center, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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19
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Cheng X, Du ZD, Ding Y, Li FY, Hua ZS, Liu H. Bubble Management for Electrolytic Water Splitting by Surface Engineering: A Review. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:16994-17008. [PMID: 38050682 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
During electrocatalytic water splitting, the management of bubbles possesses great importance to reduce the overpotential and improve the stability of the electrode. Bubble evolution is accomplished by nucleation, growth, and detachment. The expanding nucleation sites, decreasing bubble size, and timely detachment of bubbles from the electrode surface are key factors in bubble management. Recently, the surface engineering of electrodes has emerged as a promising strategy for bubble management in practical water splitting due to its reliability and efficiency. In this review, we start with a discussion of the bubble behavior on the electrodes during water splitting. Then we summarize recent progress in the management of bubbles from the perspective of surface physical (electrocatalytic surface morphology) and surface chemical (surface composition) considerations, focusing on the surface texture design, three-dimensional construction, wettability coating technology, and functional group modification. Finally, we present the principles of bubble management, followed by an insightful perspective and critical challenges for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Green Fabrication and Surface Technology of Advanced Metal Materials (Anhui University of Technology), Ministry of Education, Maanshan 243002, China
- School of Metallurgical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maxiang Road, Maanshan 243032, China
| | - Zhong-de Du
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maxiang Road, Maanshan 243032, China
| | - Yu Ding
- School of Metallurgical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maxiang Road, Maanshan 243032, China
| | - Fu-Yu Li
- School of Metallurgical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maxiang Road, Maanshan 243032, China
| | - Zhong-Sheng Hua
- School of Metallurgical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maxiang Road, Maanshan 243032, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Green Fabrication and Surface Technology of Advanced Metal Materials (Anhui University of Technology), Ministry of Education, Maanshan 243002, China
- School of Metallurgical Engineering, Anhui University of Technology, Maxiang Road, Maanshan 243032, China
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20
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Kim J, Jung SM, Lee N, Kim KS, Kim YT, Kim JK. Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Using Superaerophobic Ni Nanoarrays with Accelerated H 2 Bubble Release. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2305844. [PMID: 37641945 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Despite the adverse effects of H2 bubbles adhering to catalyst's surface on the performance of water electrolysis, the mechanisms by which H2 bubbles are effectively released during the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) remain elusive. In this study, a systematic investigation on the effect of nanoscale surface morphologies on H2 bubble release behaviors and HER performance by employing earth-abundant Ni catalysts consisting of an array of Ni nanorods (NRs) with controlled surface porosities is performed. Both aerophobicity and hydrophilicity of the catalyst's surface vary according to the surface porosity of catalysts. The Ni catalyst with the highest porosity of ≈52% exhibits superaerophobic nature as well as the best HER performance among the Ni catalysts. It is found that the Ni catalyst's superaerophobicity combined with the effective open pore channels enables the accelerated release of H2 bubbles from the surface, leading to a significant improvement in geometric activities, particularly at high current densities, as well as intrinsic activities including both specific and mass activities. It is also demonstrated that the superaerophobicity enabled by highly porous Ni NRs can be combined with Pt and Cr having optimal binding abilities to further optimize electrocatalytic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaerim Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Mun Jung
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Noho Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Su Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Tae Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Kyu Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, 77 Cheongam-Ro, Nam-Gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
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21
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Li M, Xie P, Yu L, Luo L, Sun X. Bubble Engineering on Micro-/Nanostructured Electrodes for Water Splitting. ACS NANO 2023. [PMID: 37992209 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Bubble behaviors play crucial roles in mass transfer and energy efficiency in gas evolution reactions. Combining multiscale structures and surface chemical compositions, micro-/nanostructured electrodes have drawn increasing attention. With the aim to identify the exciting opportunities and rationalize the electrode designs, in this review, we present our current comprehension of bubble engineering on micro-/nanostructured electrodes, focusing on water splitting. We first provide a brief introduction of gas wettability on micro-/nanostructured electrodes. Then we discuss the advantages of micro-/nanostructured electrodes for mass transfer (detailing the lowered overpotential, promoted supply of electrolyte, and faster bubble growth kinetics), localized electric field intensity, and electrode stability. Following that, we outline strategies for promoting bubble detachment and directional transportation. Finally, we offer our perspectives on this emerging field for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Pengpeng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Linfeng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Liang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xiaoming Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
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22
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Zhao P, Zhang C, Gong S. Size Ranges of Effective Nucleation Cavities on Gas-Evolving Surfaces. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:16101-16110. [PMID: 37920930 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Bubble nucleation has a significant influence on mass transfer and energy conversion in electrochemical gas-evolving reactions. In this work, we establish a theoretical model for bubble nucleation from gas cavities on gas-evolving surfaces. Based on analyses of transient gas diffusion within the concentration boundary layer and supersaturation equation for stable bubble nuclei, we determined the size ranges of effective nucleation cavities on gas-evolving surfaces under different levels of supersaturation conditions. In addition, a criterion for the incipience of bubble nucleation on gas-evolving surfaces is proposed. We investigate the effects of the contact angle, cone angle, concentration boundary layer thickness, ambient pressure, and temperature on the size ranges of effective nucleation cavities, respectively. We demonstrate that a larger contact angle or a smaller cone angle can broaden the size range of effective cavities, thereby promoting bubble nucleation from cavities. We also show that increasing the concentration boundary layer thickness causes larger cavities to become effective nucleation sites, which significantly expands the size range of effective cavities. In contrast, increasing the ambient pressure enables smaller cavities to become effective nucleation sites, resulting in an expansion in the size range of effective cavities. Results of this work will contribute to the manipulation of bubble nucleation densities and the optimal design of gas-evolving electrodes in various electrochemical gas-evolving reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Zhao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- Paris Elite Institute of Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shuai Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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23
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Park S, Liu L, Demirkır Ç, van der Heijden O, Lohse D, Krug D, Koper MTM. Solutal Marangoni effect determines bubble dynamics during electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution. Nat Chem 2023; 15:1532-1540. [PMID: 37563325 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-023-01294-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Understanding and manipulating gas bubble evolution during electrochemical water splitting is a crucial strategy for optimizing the electrode/electrolyte/gas bubble interface. Here gas bubble dynamics are investigated during the hydrogen evolution reaction on a well-defined platinum microelectrode by varying the electrolyte composition. We find that the microbubble coalescence efficiency follows the Hofmeister series of anions in the electrolyte. This dependency yields very different types of H2 gas bubble evolution in different electrolytes, ranging from periodic detachment of a single H2 gas bubble in sulfuric acid to aperiodic detachment of small H2 gas bubbles in perchloric acid. Our results indicate that the solutal Marangoni convection, induced by the anion concentration gradient developing during the reaction, plays a critical role at practical current density conditions. The resulting Marangoni force on the H2 gas bubble and the bubble departure diameter therefore depend on how surface tension varies with concentration for different electrolytes. This insight provides new avenues for controlling bubble dynamics during electrochemical gas bubble formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunghak Park
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Luhao Liu
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center Twente for Complex Fluid Dynamics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Çayan Demirkır
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center Twente for Complex Fluid Dynamics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | | | - Detlef Lohse
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center Twente for Complex Fluid Dynamics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Krug
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center Twente for Complex Fluid Dynamics, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Marc T M Koper
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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24
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Suvira M, Ahuja A, Lovre P, Singh M, Draher GW, Zhang B. Imaging Single H 2 Nanobubbles Using Off-Axis Dark-Field Microscopy. Anal Chem 2023; 95:15893-15899. [PMID: 37851536 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
A robust and detailed physicochemical description of electrochemically generated surface nanobubbles and their effects on electrochemical systems remains at large. Herein, we report the development and utilization of an off-axis, dark-field microscopy imaging tool for probing the dynamic process of generating single H2 nanobubbles at the surface of a carbon nanoelectrode. A change in the direction of the incident light is made to significantly reduce the intensity of the background light, which enables us to image both the nanoelectrode and nanobubble on the electrode surface or the metal nanoparticles in the vicinity of the electrode. The correlated electrochemical and optical response provides novel insights regarding bubble nucleation and dissolution on a nanoelectrode previously unattainable solely from its current-voltage response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milomir Suvira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1700, United States
| | - Ananya Ahuja
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1700, United States
| | - Pascal Lovre
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1700, United States
| | - Mantak Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1700, United States
| | - Gracious Wyatt Draher
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1700, United States
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1700, United States
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25
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Karimi V, Sharma R, Morgen P, Andersen SM. Multiple Bubble Removal Strategies to Promote Oxygen Evolution Reaction: Mechanistic Understandings from Orientation, Rotation, and Sonication Perspectives. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:49233-49245. [PMID: 37847299 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c11290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Bubble coverage of catalytically active sites is one of the well-known bottlenecks to the kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, various bubble removal approaches (electrode orientation, rotating, and sonication) were considered for the OER performance evaluation of a state-of-the-art Ir-based electrocatalyst. Key parameters, such as catalyst mass loss, activity, overpotential, and charge- and mass-transfer mechanisms, were analyzed. First, it was suggested that a suitable orientation of the working electrode facilitates coalescence and sliding bubble effects on the catalyst surface, leading to better electrochemical performance than those of the traditional rotating disk electrode (RDE) configuration. Then, the convection and secondary Bjerknes force were explained as the responsible phenomena in improving the OER activity in the RDE and sonication methods. Finally, simultaneous implementation of the methods enhanced the catalyst mass activity up to 164% and provided fast charge-transfer kinetics and low double-layer capacitance, which eventually led to a 22% reduction in overpotential, while the catalyst loss slightly increased from 1.93 to 3.88%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Karimi
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, Odense M 5230, Denmark
| | - Raghunandan Sharma
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, Odense M 5230, Denmark
| | - Per Morgen
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, Odense M 5230, Denmark
| | - Shuang Ma Andersen
- Department of Green Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, Odense M 5230, Denmark
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26
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Wei J, Liu Y, Wu X. A cyclone reactor of electrochemical advanced oxidation processes using PbO 2 anode and H 2O 2 electrosynthesis cathode. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 245:120629. [PMID: 37717333 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical advanced oxidation processes are promising tools for pollution abatement but most still lack practical engineering attempts and devices. A type of process intensification reactor for the electrochemical advanced oxidation processes is developed here. The cyclone continuous flow electrochemical reactor adopts a PbO2 anode and H2O2 electrosynthesis cathode together. A lab-scale cyclone continuous flow electrochemical reactor is fabricated and simulated, which is evaluated using the H-acid wastewater. The contributions of the PbO2 anode and H2O2 electrosynthesis cathode to pollutant degradation are discussed particularly. A 3-D model is developed to provide a visualized perspective on the reactor performances, including flow distribution, mass transfer, and current distribution. Pronounced signals of powerful radicals can be detected for the PbO2H2O2 cyclone reactor, including •OH, SO4•-, and 1O2. It exhibits excellent performances on mass transfer, electrical properties, organic degradation, and space-time yield. Such a strategy presents a promising engineering solution for scale-up and further development toward industrial application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jucai Wei
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Yun Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China; Hubei HuaDeLai (HDL) Co., Ltd, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Xu Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China; Hubei HuaDeLai (HDL) Co., Ltd, Wuhan 430023, PR China.
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27
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Fuladpanjeh-Hojaghan B, Shah RS, Roberts EPL, Trifkovic M. Effect of polarity reversal on floc formation and rheological properties of a sludge formed by the electrocoagulation process. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 242:120201. [PMID: 37336184 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Anode fouling is one of the key limiting factors to the widespread application of electrocoagulation (EC) for treatment of different types of contaminated water. Promising mitigation strategy to fouling is to operate the process under polarity reversal (PR) instead of direct current (DC). However, the PR operation comes at the cost of process complexity due to the alternation of electrochemical and chemical reactions. In this study, we systematically investigated the link between evolving fouling layer during DC and PR close to iron and aluminum electrodes and morphological and rheological properties of the formed sludge. By operando visualization of EC process, we demonstrate that during PR operation, precipitation of the iron and aluminum species occurs close to the anode interface, resulting in flocs with higher porosity and lower density than those formed under DC conditions. However, rheological investigation revealed that the PR conditions resulted in a sludge with more pronounced solid-like signature, but this enhancement in its viscoelastic properties is closely related to a period of the current's polarity reversal. We attribute this unexpected result to higher shear rate and collision of particles during PR conditions.
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28
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Li P, Li W, Huang Y, Huang Q, Li F, Tian S. Surface Engineering over Metal-Organic Framework Nanoarray to Realize Boosted and Sustained Urea Oxidation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2305585. [PMID: 37574265 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Facilitating C─N bond cleavage and promoting *COO desorption are essential yet challenging in urea oxidation reactions (UORs). Herein a novel interfacial coordination assembly protocol is established to modify the Co-phytate coordination complex on the Ni-based metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheet array (CC/Ni-BDC@Co-PA) toward boosted and sustained UOR electrocatalysis. Comprehensive experimental and theoretical investigations unveil that surface Co-PA modification over Ni-BDC can manipulate the electronic state of Ni sites, and in situ evolved charge-redistributed surface can promote urea adsorption and the subsequent C─N bond cleavage. Impressively, Co-PA functionalization can impart a negatively charged catalyst surface with improved aerophobicity, not only weakening *COO adsorption and promoting CO2 departure, but also repelling CO3 2- approaching to deactivate Ni species, eventually alleviating CO2 poisoning and enhancing operational durability. Beyond that, improved hydrophilic and aerophobic characteristics would also contribute to better mass transfer kinetics. Consequently, CC/Ni-BDC@Co-PA exhibits prominent UOR performance with an ultralow potential of 1.300 V versus RHE to attain 10 mA cm-2 , a small Tafel slope of 45 mV dec-1 , and strong durability, comparable to the best Ni-based electrocatalysts documented thus far. This work affords a novel paradigm to construct MOF-based materials for promoted and sustained UOR catalysis through elegant surface engineering based on a metal-PA complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Wenqin Li
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Yuqi Huang
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Quhua Huang
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Fengli Li
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
| | - Shuanghong Tian
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Guangzhou, 510275, P. R. China
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29
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Mondaca-Medina E, García-Carrillo R, Lee H, Wang Y, Zhang H, Ren H. Nanoelectrochemistry in electrochemical phase transition reactions. Chem Sci 2023; 14:7611-7619. [PMID: 37476712 PMCID: PMC10355110 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc01857a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical phase transition is important in a range of processes, including gas generation in fuel cells and electrolyzers, as well as in electrodeposition in battery and metal production. Nucleation is the first step in these phase transition reactions. A deep understanding of the kinetics, and mechanism of the nucleation and the structure of the nuclei and nucleation sites is fundamentally important. In this perspective, theories and methods for studying electrochemical nucleation are briefly reviewed, with an emphasis on nanoelectrochemistry and single-entity electrochemistry approaches. Perspectives on open questions and potential future approaches are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elías Mondaca-Medina
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin 105 E 24th St Austin TX 78712 USA
| | - Roberto García-Carrillo
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin 105 E 24th St Austin TX 78712 USA
| | - Hyein Lee
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin 105 E 24th St Austin TX 78712 USA
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin 105 E 24th St Austin TX 78712 USA
| | - He Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin 105 E 24th St Austin TX 78712 USA
| | - Hang Ren
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin 105 E 24th St Austin TX 78712 USA
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30
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Belotti M, El-Tahawy MMT, Garavelli M, Coote ML, Iyer KS, Ciampi S. Separating Convective from Diffusive Mass Transport Mechanisms in Ionic Liquids by Redox Pro-fluorescence Microscopy. Anal Chem 2023. [PMID: 37339015 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The study of electrochemical reactivity requires analytical techniques capable of probing the diffusion of reactants and products to and from electrified interfaces. Information on diffusion coefficients is often obtained indirectly by modeling current transients and cyclic voltammetry data, but such measurements lack spatial resolution and are accurate only if mass transport by convection is negligible. Detecting and accounting for adventitious convection in viscous and wet solvents, such as ionic liquids, is technically challenging. We have developed a direct, spatiotemporally resolved optical tracking of diffusion fronts which can detect and resolve convective disturbances to linear diffusion. By tracking the movement of an electrode-generated fluorophore, we demonstrate that parasitic gas evolving reactions lead to 10-fold overestimates of macroscopic diffusion coefficients. A hypothesis is put forward linking large barriers to inner-sphere redox reactions, such as hydrogen gas evolution, to the formation of cation-rich overscreening and crowding double layer structures in imidazolium-based ionic liquids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Belotti
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Mohsen M T El-Tahawy
- Dipartimento di Chimica Industriale "Toso Montanari", Università di Bologna, Bologna, Emilia Romagna 40136, Italy
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Marco Garavelli
- Dipartimento di Chimica Industriale "Toso Montanari", Università di Bologna, Bologna, Emilia Romagna 40136, Italy
| | - Michelle L Coote
- Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - K Swaminathan Iyer
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Simone Ciampi
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
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31
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Ikeda H, Misumi R, Nishiki Y, Kuroda Y, Mitsushima S. tert-Butyl-alcohol-induced breakage of the rigid bubble layer that causes overpotential in the oxygen evolution reaction during alkaline water electrolysis. Electrochim Acta 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2023.142283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
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32
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Krause L, Skibińska K, Rox H, Baumann R, Marzec MM, Yang X, Mutschke G, Żabiński P, Lasagni AF, Eckert K. Hydrogen Bubble Size Distribution on Nanostructured Ni Surfaces: Electrochemically Active Surface Area Versus Wettability. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:18290-18299. [PMID: 37010817 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c22231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Emerging manufacturing technologies make it possible to design the morphology of electrocatalysts on the nanoscale in order to improve their efficiency in electrolysis processes. The current work investigates the effects of electrode-attached hydrogen bubbles on the performance of electrodes depending on their surface morphology and wettability. Ni-based electrocatalysts with hydrophilic and hydrophobic nanostructures are manufactured by electrodeposition, and their surface properties are characterized. Despite a considerably larger electrochemically active surface area, electrochemical analysis reveals that the samples with more pronounced hydrophobic properties perform worse at industrially relevant current densities. High-speed imaging shows significantly larger bubble detachment radii with higher hydrophobicity, meaning that the electrode surface area that is blocked by gas is larger than the area gained by nanostructuring. Furthermore, a slight tendency toward bubble size reduction of 7.5% with an increase in the current density is observed in 1 M KOH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Krause
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstraße 14, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Katarzyna Skibińska
- Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals, AGH University of Science and Technology, A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
- Centrum Badań i Rozwoju Technologii dla Przemysłu S.A., Ludwika Waryńskiego 3A, 00-645 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Hannes Rox
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Robert Baumann
- Institute of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, Technische Universität Dresden, George-Baehr-Straße 3c, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Mateusz M Marzec
- Academic Centre for Materials and Nanotechnology, AGH University of Science and Technology, A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Xuegeng Yang
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerd Mutschke
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Piotr Żabiński
- Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals, AGH University of Science and Technology, A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Andrés Fabián Lasagni
- Institute of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, Technische Universität Dresden, George-Baehr-Straße 3c, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institut für Werkstoff- und Strahltechnik IWS, Winterbergstraße 28, 01277 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kerstin Eckert
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstraße 14, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- Institute of Fluid Dynamics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
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33
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Tian L, Liang J, Gao Y, Gao X, Kang X. Current oscillations from bipolar nanopores for statistical monitoring of hydrogen evolution on a confined electrochemical catalyst. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:7629-7633. [PMID: 36857696 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp00055a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Taking advantage of bipolar electrochemistry and a glass nanopipette, continuous single bubbles can be controlled which are generated and detached from a nanometer-sized area of confined electrochemical catalysts. The observed current oscillations offer opportunities to rapidly collect data for the statistical analysis of single-bubble generation on and departure from the catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Tian
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecular Chemistry, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China.
| | - Jing Liang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecular Chemistry, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China.
| | - Yingjie Gao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecular Chemistry, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China.
| | - Xiang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecular Chemistry, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaofeng Kang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecular Chemistry, College of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, P. R. China.
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34
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Zhang L, Liu F, Wang J, Lin H, Han Q. Bioinspired nanobubble water channel membranes for ultrafast osmosis desalination. J Memb Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2023.121554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
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35
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van der Heijden O, Park S, Eggebeen JJJ, Koper MTM. Non-Kinetic Effects Convolute Activity and Tafel Analysis for the Alkaline Oxygen Evolution Reaction on NiFeOOH Electrocatalysts. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202216477. [PMID: 36533712 PMCID: PMC10108042 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202216477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A large variety of nickel-based catalysts has been investigated for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline media. However, their reported activity, as well as Tafel slope values, vary greatly. To understand this variation, we studied electrodeposited Ni80 Fe20 OOH catalysts with different loadings at varying rotation rates, hydroxide concentrations, with or without sonication. We show that, at low current density (<5 mA cm-2 ), the Tafel slope value is ≈30 mV dec-1 for Ni80 Fe20 OOH. At higher polarization, the Tafel slope continuously increases and is dependent on rotation rate, loading, hydroxide concentration and sonication. These Tafel slope values are convoluted by non-kinetic effects, such as bubbles, potential-dependent changes in ohmic resistance and (internal) OH- gradients. As best practise, we suggest that Tafel slopes should be plotted vs. current or potential. In such a plot, it can be appreciated if there is a kinetic Tafel slope or if the observed Tafel slope is influenced by non-kinetic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onno van der Heijden
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sunghak Park
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jordy J J Eggebeen
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marc T M Koper
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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36
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Zhang C, Xu Z, Han N, Tian Y, Kallio T, Yu C, Jiang L. Superaerophilic/superaerophobic cooperative electrode for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction via enhanced mass transfer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadd6978. [PMID: 36652519 PMCID: PMC9848275 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add6978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), as an effective method to produce green hydrogen, is greatly impeded by inefficient mass transfer, i.e., bubble adhesion on electrode, bubble dispersion in the vicinity of electrode, and poor dissolved H2 diffusion, which results in blocked electrocatalytic area and large H2 concentration overpotential. Here, we report a superaerophilic/superaerophobic (SAL/SAB) cooperative electrode to efficiently promote bubble transfer by asymmetric Laplace pressure and accelerate dissolved H2 diffusion through reducing diffusion distance. Benefiting from the enhanced mass transfer, the overpotential for the SAL/SAB cooperative electrode at -10 mA cm-2 is only -19 mV, compared to -61 mV on the flat Pt electrode. By optimizing H2SO4 concentration, the SAL/SAB cooperative electrode can achieve ultrahigh current density (-1867 mA cm-2) at an overpotential of -500 mV. We can envision that the SAL/SAB cooperative strategy is an effective method to improve HER efficiency and stimulate the understanding of various gas-involved processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interface Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Nana Han
- Department of Chemistry and Materials Science, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Aalto FI-00076, Finland
| | - Ye Tian
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interface Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Tanja Kallio
- Department of Chemistry and Materials Science, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Aalto FI-00076, Finland
| | - Cunming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Corresponding author. (C.Y.); (L.J.)
| | - Lei Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interface Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Corresponding author. (C.Y.); (L.J.)
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37
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Nanobubble-governed membrane with nanofluidic channels for efficient molecule/ion sieving. J Memb Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2023.121402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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38
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Electrolysis in reduced gravitational environments: current research perspectives and future applications. NPJ Microgravity 2022; 8:56. [PMID: 36470890 PMCID: PMC9722834 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-022-00239-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical energy conversion technologies play a crucial role in space missions, for example, in the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) on the International Space Station (ISS). They are also vitally important for future long-term space travel for oxygen, fuel and chemical production, where a re-supply of resources from Earth is not possible. Here, we provide an overview of currently existing electrolytic energy conversion technologies for space applications such as proton exchange membrane (PEM) and alkaline electrolyzer systems. We discuss the governing interfacial processes in these devices influenced by reduced gravitation and provide an outlook on future applications of electrolysis systems in, e.g., in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technologies. A perspective of computational modelling to predict the impact of the reduced gravitational environment on governing electrochemical processes is also discussed and experimental suggestions to better understand efficiency-impacting processes such as gas bubble formation and detachment in reduced gravitational environments are outlined.
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39
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Khalighi F, Deen NG, Tang Y, Vreman AW. Hydrogen bubble growth in alkaline water electrolysis: an immersed boundary simulation study. Chem Eng Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2022.118280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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40
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A dual bubble layer model for reactant transfer resistance in alkaline water electrolysis. Electrochim Acta 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2022.141053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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41
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An Electrochemical Oscillatory Flow Reactor with Pillar Array Electrodes Improving Mass Transfer in Electrosynthesis. Electrochim Acta 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2022.141435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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42
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Challenges and opportunities in continuous flow processes for electrochemically mediated carbon capture. iScience 2022; 25:105153. [PMID: 36204263 PMCID: PMC9529983 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbon capture from both stationary emitters and dilute sources is critically needed to mitigate climate change. Carbon dioxide separation methods driven by electrochemical stimuli show promise to sidestep the high-energy penalty and fossil-fuel dependency associated with the conventional pressure and temperature swings. Compared with a batch process, electrochemically mediated carbon capture (EMCC) operating in a continuous flow mode offers greater design flexibility. Therefore, this review introduces key advances in continuous flow EMCC for point source, air, and ocean carbon captures. Notably, the main challenges and future research opportunities for practical implementation of continuous flow EMCC processes are discussed from a multi-scale perspective, from molecules to electrochemical cells and finally to separation systems.
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43
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Márquez RA, Kawashima K, Son YJ, Rose R, Smith LA, Miller N, Carrasco Jaim OA, Celio H, Mullins CB. Tailoring 3D-Printed Electrodes for Enhanced Water Splitting. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:42153-42170. [PMID: 36084243 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c12579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Alkaline water electrolysis, a promising technology for clean energy storage, is constrained by extrinsic factors in addition to intrinsic electrocatalytic activity. To begin to compare between catalytic materials for electrolysis applications, these extrinsic factors must first be understood and controlled. Here, we modify extrinsic electrode properties and study the effects of bubble release to examine how the electrode and surface design impact the performance of water electrolysis. We fabricate robust and cost-effective electrodes through a sequential three-dimensional (3D) printing and metal deposition procedure. Through a systematic assessment of the deposition procedure, we confirm the close relationship between extrinsic electrode properties (i.e., wettability, surface roughness, and electrochemically active surface area) and electrochemical performance. Modifying the electrode geometry, size, and electrolyte flow rate results in an overpotential decrease and different bubble diameters and lifetimes for the hydrogen (HER) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER). Hence, we demonstrate the essential role of the electrode architecture and forced electrolyte convection on bubble release. Additionally, we confirm the suitability of ordered, Ni-coated 3D porous structures by evaluating the HER/OER performance, bubble dissipation, and long-term stability. Finally, we utilize the 3D porous electrode as a support for studying a benchmark NiFe electrocatalyst, confirming the robustness and effectiveness of 3D-printed electrodes for testing electrocatalytic materials while extrinsic properties are precisely controlled. Overall, we demonstrate that tailoring electrode architectures and surface properties result in precise tuning of extrinsic electrode properties, providing more reproducible and comparable conditions for testing the efficiency of electrode materials for water electrolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl A Márquez
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Kenta Kawashima
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Yoon Jun Son
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Roger Rose
- Texas Inventionworks, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Lettie A Smith
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Nathaniel Miller
- Department of Geosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Omar Ali Carrasco Jaim
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Hugo Celio
- Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - C Buddie Mullins
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
- Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
- Center for Electrochemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
- H2@UT, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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44
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Choudhury R, Kang AH, Lee D. Effect of Ionic Mass Transport on the Performance of a Novel Tubular Direct Carbon Fuel Cell for the Maximal Use of a Carbon-Filled Porous Anode. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:31003-31012. [PMID: 36092551 PMCID: PMC9453993 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c03003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite a large number of existing studies about direct carbon fuel cells (DCFCs), sufficient power generation has remained a major technical challenge for the commercialization of DCFCs. This study was designed to implement the benefits of a carbon-filled porous anode developed in our recent studies in a unit cell. First, we developed a new tubular cell assembly comprising an anode, a thin matrix, and a tubular cathode with a certain number of holes in its surface. By employing a reference electrode, we measured the resistance and I-V-P characteristics of the anode, a cathode with a single hole, and the entire cell. As a result, we found that the cathode performance was degraded by resistance to ionic mass transfer, while the anode resistance was invariant (∼0.4 Ω cm2). By developing a semi-empirical current-potential model including an ion mass transport effect, we proved that the number of holes in the cathode surface is the key to the maximal utilization of the present anode. This eventually led to notable gains in the maximum power density to 205 mW cm-2 at 700 °C in experiments. Lastly, a durability test was conducted to reconfirm the effect of ionic mass transfer on the power generation over time.
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45
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Zhao P, Hu Z, Cheng P, Huang R, Gong S. Coalescence-Induced Bubble Departure: Effects of Dynamic Contact Angles. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:10558-10567. [PMID: 35973203 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c01404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Coalescence-induced bubble departure is a common phenomenon in boiling and gas evolution reactions, which has significant impacts on the heat/mass transport. In this work, we systematically investigate the effects of dynamic contact angles on the coalescence and departure processes of two equal-sized bubbles. A critical contact angle (θcr) of 76° is determined for an ideal surface on the basis of a surface energy analysis, beyond which the coalesced bubble does not depart from the wall. Using 3D multi-relaxation-time (MRT) lattice Boltzmann simulations, we demonstrate that the advancing contact angle mainly governs the movement of the outer side of the contact lines, and the increase of the advancing contact angle may delay or even prevent the departure of the coalesced bubble. On the other hand, the receding contact angle dominates the motion of the inner side of the contact lines, and the decrease of the receding contact angle facilitates the departure of the coalesced bubble. We identify a regime map for the coalescence-induced bubble departure with respect to the contact angles, which includes four regions: the all-departure region, the advancing contact angle dominated region, the receding contact angle dominated region, and the nondeparture region. Numerically simulated critical contact angles that separate the above-mentioned regions agree well with theoretical analyses. The results of this study will contribute to the manipulation of bubble behaviors and the optimal design of working surfaces in a variety of energy systems involving boiling and gas-evolving reaction processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Zhao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zhiheng Hu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ping Cheng
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Rongzong Huang
- School of Energy Science and Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Shuai Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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46
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Electrosynthesis of tetrabenzylthiuram disulfide via flow reactors. Chem Eng Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2022.117717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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47
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Chen Q, Zhao J, Deng X, Shan Y, Peng Y. Single-Entity Electrochemistry of Nano- and Microbubbles in Electrolytic Gas Evolution. J Phys Chem Lett 2022; 13:6153-6163. [PMID: 35762985 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c01388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Gas bubbles are found in diverse electrochemical processes, ranging from electrolytic water splitting to chlor-alkali electrolysis, as well as photoelectrochemical processes. Understanding the intricate influence of bubble evolution on the electrode processes and mass transport is key to the rational design of efficient devices for electrolytic energy conversion and thus requires precise measurement and analysis of individual gas bubbles. In this Perspective, we review the latest advances in single-entity measurement of gas bubbles on electrodes, covering the approaches of voltammetric and galvanostatic studies based on nanoelectrodes, probing bubble evolution using scanning probe electrochemistry with spatial information, and monitoring the transient nature of nanobubble formation and dynamics with opto-electrochemical imaging. We emphasize the intrinsic and quantitative physicochemical interpretation of single gas bubbles from electrochemical data, highlighting the fundamental understanding of the heterogeneous nucleation, dynamic state of the three-phase boundary, and the correlation between electrolytic bubble dynamics and nanocatalyst activities. In addition, a brief discussion of future perspectives is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianjin Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jiao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaoli Deng
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yun Shan
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
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48
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Yuan K, Zhou L, Wang J, Geng Z, Qi J, Wang X, Zhang L, Hu J. Formation of Bulk Nanobubbles Induced by Accelerated Electrons Irradiation: Dependences on Dose Rates and Doses of Irradiation. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:7938-7944. [PMID: 35729691 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Radiation on aqueous solutions can induce water radiolysis with products of radicals, H2, H2O2, and so on, and their consequent biological effects have long been interested in radiation chemistry. Unlike the decomposition of water by electric current that produces a significant number of bubbles, the gas products from the radiolysis of water are normally invisible by bare eyes, little is known on whether nanosized bubbles can be produced and what their dynamics are upon irradiation. Here, we first presented the formation of nanoscale bulk bubbles by irradiating pure water with accelerated electrons and their concentration and size distribution changes with the dose and rate of irradiation. The nanoparticle tracking analysis showed that irradiation can actually produce a certain amount of bulk nanobubbles in pure water. They exhibited a dependence on the irradiation dose rates and irradiation doses. The results indicated that the concentration of formed bulk nanobubbles increased as the irradiation dose rates increased, but it will increase and then decrease with the increased irradiation doses. The formed bulk nanobubbles could maintain stability for several hours. Our findings will provide a new angle of view for the radiation chemistry of water, and the formed nanobubbles may help elucidate the biological effects of irradiated solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwei Yuan
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Limin Zhou
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Zhanli Geng
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Juncheng Qi
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xingya Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201204, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jun Hu
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201204, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201204, China
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49
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Hu K, Luo L, Sun X, Li H. Unraveling the effects of gas species and surface wettability on the morphology of interfacial nanobubbles. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2022; 4:2893-2901. [PMID: 36132003 PMCID: PMC9418701 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00009a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The morphology of interfacial nanobubbles (INBs) is a crucial but controversial topic in nanobubble research. We carried out atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to comprehensively study the morphology of INBs controlled by several determinant factors, including gas species, surface wettability, and bubble size. The simulations show that H2, O2 and N2 can all form stable INBs, with the contact angles (CAs, on the liquid side) following the order CA(H2) < CA(N2) < CA(O2), while CO2 prefers to form a gas film (pancake) structure on the substrate. The CA of INBs demonstrates a linear relation with the strength of interfacial interaction; however, a limited bubble CA of ∼25° is found on superhydrophilic surfaces. The high gas density and high internal pressure of the INBs are further confirmed, accompanied by strong interfacial gas enrichment (IGE) behavior. The morphology study of differently sized INBs shows that the internal density of the gas is drastically decreased with the bubble size at the initial stage of bubble nucleation, while the CA remains almost constant. Based on the simulation results, a modified Young's equation is presented for describing the extraordinary morphology of INBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadi Hu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemistry Technology Beijing 100029 PR China
| | - Liang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 PR China
| | - Xiaoming Sun
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemistry Technology Beijing 100029 PR China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology Beijing 100029 PR China
| | - Hui Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemistry Technology Beijing 100029 PR China
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50
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Louisia S, Kim D, Li Y, Gao M, Yu S, Roh I, Yang P. The presence and role of the intermediary CO reservoir in heterogeneous electroreduction of CO 2. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2201922119. [PMID: 35486696 PMCID: PMC9171356 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2201922119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
SignificanceThe electroconversion of CO2 to value-added products is a promising path to sustainable fuels and chemicals. However, the microenvironment that is created during CO2 electroreduction near the surface of heterogeneous Cu electrocatalysts remains unknown. Its understanding can lead to the development of ways to improve activity and selectivity toward multicarbon products. This work introduces a method called on-stream substitution of reactant isotope that provides quantitative information of the CO intermediate species present on Cu surfaces during electrolysis. An intermediary CO reservoir that contains more CO molecules than typically expected in a surface adsorbed configuration was identified. Its size was shown to be a factor closely associated with the formation of multicarbon products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Louisia
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Dohyung Kim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Mengyu Gao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Sunmoon Yu
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Inwhan Roh
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Peidong Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720
- Kavli Energy NanoScience Institute, Berkeley, CA 94720
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