Natural and Forced Convection in Multi-Phasic Electrochemical Systems

Abstract

Multi-phasic electrochemical systems such as electrolyzers or metal-air batteries are intimately linked to energy transition and are at the heart of new scientific advances and modern industrial development. The presence of gas phases, inherent to the processes, directly impacts the performance and stability of the systems. In this study, we propose different ways to improve the dynamics of bubble evacuation, through forced convection (flow systems), and natural convection (electrode design and cell geometry). By analyzing the links between the electrochemical kinetics and active surface electrode variations, we show that forced convection is an excellent way to decrease the overall energy cost and reduce the harmful impact of gas bubbles. Regarding natural evacuation, adapted electrode or cell designs also allow to improve performances, without adding external hydraulic circuit.