Periodic Reporting for period 1 - MacGhyver (Microfluidic wAstewater treatment and Creation of Green HYdrogen Via Electrochemical Reactions)
Période du rapport: 2022-09-01 au 2023-08-31
In WP3, MacGhyver has achieved significant developments with the creation of a membrane-less microfluidic electrolyzer. The design features a compact, optimized stack of microchannels and innovative electrode integration. Currently, the project is actively engaged in the fabrication and testing phases, with the ultimate goal of enhancing efficiency through iterative design adjustments based on experimental findings.
WP4 focuses on in-depth exploration of limitations and potentials in the domain of electrochemical compression and storage solutions. MacGhyver has identified certain limitations, particularly those related to water transport at high current density and is actively working on solutions to address these challenges. The project has made substantial progress in developing a technical model for electrochemical hydrogen compression.
In WP5, MacGhyver has outlined objectives centered on assembling components and optimization. However, as of now, the planned activities within this work package have not yet commenced as originally scheduled. The consortium partners are currently directing their efforts toward the development of individual device models in alignment with the project's goals.
WP6 is actively engaged in assessing the environmental and life cost impacts attributed to the project. This comprehensive assessment includes evaluations of cost-effectiveness, risk mitigation strategies for the microfluidic electrolyzer, and an exploration of socio-economic impacts.
As a result of WP3, the microfluidic design for the electrolyzer has been finalized. We defined our Minimum Viable Product, which is envisaged as a 150W stack comprising 15 cells arranged in series within a bipolar configuration. This assembly will draw its power from a power supply with specifications of 30V and 5A. The projected flow rate for a single-cell device is around 1m3/day (12cm3/s), with a total pressure drop of less than 0.2bar. We have successfully realized our initial microfluidic membraneless electrolyzer design, demonstrated in CAD and validated through analytical and numerical methodologies.
Within WP4, the electrochemical domain and the CFD coupling are working and able to produce results. The Simulation results already showed the need to improve on membrane material choice to ensure high water retention and conductivity. The acquisition of alternative membrane materials to compare with Nafion has already begun.
As a result of WP5, we are currently able to calculate LCoH for the MacGhyver system and other hydrogen production systems.