Hybrid PEM-SOEC Electrolysis Waste Heat Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water electrolysis systems face inefficiencies and excessive waste thermal energy production, with low-temperature PEM systems being less efficient but more compact, and high-temperature SOEC systems being less responsive to power changes.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid low-high temperature electrolysis system that recovers waste thermal energy from a low-temperature electrolysis subsystem, such as PEM, and uses it to power a high-temperature electrolysis subsystem, like SOEC, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If low-temperature PEM electrolysis is used, then the system is more compact and responsive to power changes, but efficiency is lower and excessive waste thermal energy is produced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a low-temperature PEM electrolysis system and a high-temperature SOEC electrolysis system into a hybrid configuration. The PEM subsystem provides rapid responsiveness to power changes, while the SOEC subsystem operates at high temperature for improved efficiency. The two subsystems work together to resolve the contradiction between speed and energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent recovers waste thermal energy from the PEM electrolysis subsystem and uses it to heat the SOEC electrolysis subsystem. This converts the harmful waste heat into a useful resource, improving overall system efficiency while maintaining the responsiveness benefits of the PEM system.
2Loss of energy
If high-temperature SOEC electrolysis is used, then efficiency is higher, but the system responds less rapidly to changes in power input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the high-temperature SOEC system with a low-temperature PEM system. The SOEC provides high efficiency for base load operation, while the PEM system provides rapid response capability. This combination allows the system to achieve both high efficiency and fast responsiveness that neither system could achieve alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the operational distribution between SOEC and PEM subsystems can be adjusted based on power input conditions. The system can dynamically shift between relying more on SOEC for efficiency or more on PEM for rapid response, optimizing performance across varying operating conditions.
3Loss of energy
If waste thermal energy is recovered and used to heat another electrolysis subsystem, then overall efficiency increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the hybrid system where the thermal energy produced by one subsystem serves a dual purpose: it is waste heat from the PEM system and simultaneously the heating source for the SOEC system. This multi-functionality approach reduces the need for separate heating systems and minimizes overall system complexity despite the increased efficiency gains.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This hybrid system increases overall efficiency, reduces capital expenditures, and provides enhanced flexibility by integrating energy storage and utilizing mature PEM technology while improving SOEC responsiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The first water electrolysis subsystem electrolyzes water to produce hydrogen and waste thermal energy
Implementation Method 2
The second water electrolysis subsystem electrolyzes water to produce hydrogen utilizing the waste thermal energy produced by the first water electrolysis subsystem
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure introduces systems and related methods. Each system includes a first water electrolysis subsystem and a second water electrolysis subsystem. The first water electrolysis subsystem electrolyzes water to produce hydrogen and waste thermal energy. The second water electrolysis subsystem electrolyzes water to produce hydrogen utilizing the waste thermal energy produced by the first water electrolysis subsystem.