Skip to Main Content
 

Global Search Box

 
 
 
 

Files

File List


akron1302537940.pdf (1.6 MB)

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

A ONE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF A PROTON-EXCHANGE MEMBRANE PHOTOELECTROLYSIS CELL

Moser, Robert Daniel, III
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1302537940

Abstract Details

2011, Master of Science, University of Akron, Applied Mathematics.
A proton-exchange membrane photoelectrolysis cell (PEMPC) is a type of solar cell which utilizes solar energy to split water into ions which are converted to oxygen and hydrogen gas. The model proposed in this thesis will examine several aspects within the cell and track temperature, water content, electrical potential, and proton concentration across the length of a PEMPC operating at steady-state. The solar cell being modeled can be broken up into three regions: anode, membrane, and cathode. Within the anode, a combination of applied and photo-induced current densities split water molecules into hydrogen ions and oxygen gas. The hydrogen ions then proceed into the membrane where they are attracted to the sulfonic acid groups placed along the channels. Finally, the protons reach the cathode where they are united with electrons to form hydrogen gas. Results from the model show that reducing temperature and water content slightly increases hydrogen production. The construction of the membrane as well as the number of sulfonic acid groups are shown to play a somewhat noticeable role on hydrogen production. A key discovery is how the relationship that current density and light intensity must be balanced to minimize the power supply needed. The most important finding in the model is the tremendous effect the size of electrodes and channels have on hydrogen production.
Gerald Young, Dr. (Advisor)
Curtis Clemons, Dr. (Advisor)
Kevin Kreider, Dr. (Committee Member)
Mathematics
PEMPC; proton-exchange membrane; photoelectrolysis cell; mathematical model

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Moser, III, R. D. (2011). A ONE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF A PROTON-EXCHANGE MEMBRANE PHOTOELECTROLYSIS CELL [Master's thesis, University of Akron]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1302537940

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Moser, III, Robert. A ONE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF A PROTON-EXCHANGE MEMBRANE PHOTOELECTROLYSIS CELL. 2011. University of Akron, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1302537940.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Moser, III, Robert. "A ONE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF A PROTON-EXCHANGE MEMBRANE PHOTOELECTROLYSIS CELL." Master's thesis, University of Akron, 2011. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1302537940

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

akron1302537940
637
© 2011, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by University of Akron and OhioLINK.