Efficient hydrogen production using ternary Ni–Cu–Mo ionic activator

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy 2015-05, Vol.40 (19), p.6270-6275
• Main Authors: Perovic, Ivana M., Acimovic, Danka D., Tasić, Gvozden S., Karic, Slavko D., Lausevic, Petar Z., Marčeta Kaninski, Milica P., Nikolić, Vladimir M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alkaline electrolysis; Energy consumption; Hydrogen production; Ionic activator
• ISSN: 0360-3199; 1879-3487
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2015.03.003

This manuscript presents contribution on the improved efficiency of the alkaline electrolytic production of hydrogen by in situ adding activating compounds directly into the electrolyte during the electrolytic process. New electrode material, ternary system, Ni–Cu–Mo, was applied as activating compound i.e. ionic activator. The energy requirements per mass unit of hydrogen produced is reduced for more than 10%, compared to non-activated, 30 wt. % KOH electrolyte system. Energy saving is higher at higher temperatures and at higher current densities. During the electrolytic process, the ionic activators develop nanosized porous structure deposits on the surface of the Ni electrode. Presented results point out a strong possibility of the usage of ternary ionic activators in industrial applications. [Display omitted] •Ternary Ni(en)Cu(ox)Mo system used as ionic activator.•Highly developed surface of electrode, sponge pattern with needle like nanometar structure.•Energy saving in electrolytic hydrogen production more than 10%.