3D printing fabrication of tailored interfaces for pressurized Protonic Ceramic Electrolysis Cells

Pressuriz3D aims to advance in the field of pressurized protonic ceramic electrolysis cells (PCEC) with the utilization of advanced fabrication techniques such as masked-stereolithography (MSLA) and robocasting.

Aiming to reduce the utilization of fossil fuels on a global scale, the design of systems for hydrogen production via steam electrolysis is fundamental to increase the reliability of renewable energy sources. PCECs are high-temperature electrolysers which use ceramic electrolytes characterized by high protonic conductivity.

Compared with other HTEs (e.g., solid oxide electrolysis cells, SOEC), this type of conduction mechanism can significantly reduce the operating temperature of the device (e.g., from 700-900 °C to 300-650 °C respectively for SOEC and PCEC).

Additionally, PCECs can produce directly pure hydrogen eliminating the purification process to remove steam necessary for SOECs.Fabrication of a PCEC via additive manufacturing (AM) techniques can significantly reduce production costs and the waste of material during processing, thus boosting sustainability and circularity aspects. complex-shaped electrolyte can be produced increasing the mechanical resistance with the joining materials to maintain the gas tightness of the system (i.e., glass-ceramic sealants).

Patterned surfaces coupled with glass ceramic sealants will allow the utilization of pressurized gases, which are expected to significantly increase PCEC performances.

Furthermore, geometry modification of the electrolyte membranes, thanks to the fabrication via MSLA printing, can further improve the performance and the hydrogen production rate.

A high impact on the future career of the candidate is expected by complementing his current background with new skills in the field of hydrogen conversion, in particular, the design and processing of PCEC and the integration of glass-ceramic sealants for the fabrication of pressurized systems.