The Concept of Electrochemical Hydrogen Compression and Purification Technology

Hydrogen is an energy vector with significant potential for applications in a sustainable energy future. However, its low volumetric energy density under ambient conditions poses challenges for efficient storage and transportation. Furthermore, over 76% of global hydrogen production currently comes from fossil fuels and bioprocesses, necessitating effective separation and purification techniques. Presently, compressing gaseous hydrogen presents a cost-effective solution for enabling more sufficient storage. Additionally, blending hydrogen into the existing natural gas grid for efficient delivery and subsequent purification is a viable solution for broadening hydrogen utilization. Electrochemical hydrogen compressors are a promising technology that enables simultaneous hydrogen compression and purification with high selectivity, making them an attractive option for hydrogen compression and separation from gaseous mixtures. Due to their modularity, high efficiency (typically over 60%), and operational advantages such as being noiseless, vibration-free, and free of moving parts, they stand out from the present purification and compression technology. However, challenges such as water and thermal management, membrane durability, hydrogen back diffusion, and cell assembly complexities remain. Ongoing research focuses on overcoming these limitations through advanced catalyst design, thermal water and management optimization, advanced, and the development of novel proton exchange membranes. Although electrochemical hydrogen compressor technology is still in development, its potential as a cost-effective, energy-efficient solution for hydrogen compression and purification could play an important role in advancing the hydrogen economy and supporting the transition to greener energy systems.