Improving the Efficiencies of Water Splitting and CO₂ Electrolysis by Anodic O₂ Bubble Management

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.