Solar-Energized Alkaline Electrolyzers: A Path to Sustainable and Efficient Hydrogen Production

Abstract

The Present examines the design of an alkaline electrolyzer model powered by solar energy, in which different electrolytes, i.e., KOH, NaCl, and NaOH are dissolved in water to generate hydrogen gas, explicitly targeting the production of renewable green hydrogen as an HHO-gas most sustainably and least carbon emission. This method of hydrogen production aligns with the increasing emphasis on renewable energy sources and the need for scalable, clean energy systems that can meet future energy demands while minimizing environmental impact. As such, solar-powered electrolysis is poised to play a vital role in developing a hydrogen economy and the broader goals of achieving energy sustainability and security. This work focuses on uncovering the highest HHO gas yield with the least corrosion involved in an automated temperature and pressure-regulated alkaline electrolyzer. The experiment employs 316L stainless steel as the electrode material due to its significantly lower corrosion rates up to 10 to 100 times less corrosive than carbon steel. The experimental results, focusing on green hydrogen production, power efficiency, and material sustainability, show a remarkable agreement with the mathematical model, confirming that the gas generators consistently deliver the specified output across various operational conditions.