PEM Electrolysis CFD Simulation

PEM Electrolysis CFD Simulation in ANSYS Fluent: Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the third chapter of our Electrolysis Training Course, focusing on Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) Electrolysis simulation using ANSYS Fluent. This module offers an in-depth exploration of PEM electrolysis modeling, building upon previous concepts to provide advanced CFD simulation techniques.

Understanding PEM Electrolysis

Before diving into the simulation process, let’s establish a clear understanding of PEM electrolysis:

Electrolysis vs. Fuel Cells

• Fuel Cells: Convert chemical energy to electrical energy
• Electrolysis: Reverse process, consuming electricity to produce hydrogen fuel

PEM Electrolyzer Components

Key components include:

• Anode and cathode
• Electrolyte membrane layer
• Current collectors
• Gas diffusion layers (porous electrodes)
• Catalyst layers

In PEM electrolysis, water is supplied to the anode side, resulting in oxygen production at the anode and hydrogen production at the cathode.

PEM Electrolysis Simulation Methodology

Our simulation approach utilizes ANSYS Fluent’s advanced CFD capabilities:

Geometry and Meshing

• 3D model created using Design Modeler software
• Structured meshing with ANSYS Meshing software
• 428,800 cells generated for precise simulation

Simulation Setup in ANSYS Fluent

• Utilization of the potential/electrochemistry model for potential equation
• Implementation of the PEM electrolysis sub-model
• Configuration of electrolyzer layers

Key Simulation Models and Parameters

Multiphase Flow Modeling

• Mixture multiphase model for two-phase flow (water and gaseous species)

Species Transport Model

• Modeling of H2, O2, and H2O for electrochemical reactions

Electrolyzer Layer Configuration

Detailed setup of:

• Current collectors
• Gas diffusion layers
• Catalyst layers
• Gas flow channels

Simulation Results and Analysis

Our comprehensive simulation yields valuable insights:

Contour Analysis

Examination of contours for:

• Current flux density magnitude
• Transfer current
• Water volume fraction
• Mass fractions of H2 and O2

Electrochemical Behavior Insights

• Water entry from the anode side
• Oxygen production on the anode side
• Hydrogen production on the cathode side

These results align with the expected functional mechanism of the PEM electrolysis system, confirming the accuracy of our simulation.

Why This PEM Electrolysis Simulation is Crucial

This simulation module offers:

• Practical application of advanced CFD techniques for PEM electrolysis
• Deep understanding of multiphase flow in electrochemical systems
• Insights into species transport and reaction mechanisms in PEM electrolyzers

Target Audience

This module is ideal for:

• CFD specialists focusing on electrochemical processes
• Researchers in hydrogen production and renewable energy
• Engineers developing PEM electrolysis systems

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this module, you will be able to:

• Set up and run PEM electrolysis simulations in ANSYS Fluent
• Interpret complex CFD results related to multiphase electrochemical processes
• Apply advanced modeling techniques to optimize PEM electrolyzer designs

Enhance your electrolysis simulation skills with this comprehensive guide to PEM electrolysis modeling in ANSYS Fluent, and take your understanding of renewable energy technologies to the next level!