CFD simulation and experimental comparison of bubble-induced convection during electrochemical water splitting

Author(s)

Wosiak, Gabriel ; da Silva, Jeyse ; Sena, Sthefany S. ; de Andrade, Renato N. ; Pereira, Ernesto

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL; v. 433, p. 7-pg., 2022-04-01.

Abstract

The behavior of gas bubbles produced during electrochemical processes is of large interest because of the increase in cell overpotential induced by their production, the electrode surface covering by them and, finally, the detachment of these bubbles and their direct impact on the energy consumption during the reaction. In this work, we used coupled experimental and computational approaches to investigate bubble formation under those conditions where there are important convective effects. We have measured both normal and parallel velocity of the solution and built up a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. The results were compared to experimental data. Then, having the computational model validated by experimental data, we have simulated different conditions following bubble displacement. An important change of the surface covering is observed during the electrochemical reaction. Considering just the covering change, for example, there is up to 23 % increase comparing to the electrode edge and center. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/24383-0 - Coupled electrochemical and microwave synthesis of new optimized electrode materials
• Grantee: Gabriel Wosiak Leite
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• FAPESP's process: 17/11986-5 - Generation and storage of New Energy: bringing technological development for the country
• Grantee: Ana Flávia Nogueira
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program
• FAPESP's process: 14/50249-8 - Green chemistry: sustainable synthetic methods employing benign solvents, safer reagents, and bio-renewable feedstock
• Grantee: Arlene Gonçalves Corrêa
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program
• FAPESP's process: 13/07296-2 - CDMF - Center for the Development of Functional Materials
• Grantee: Elson Longo da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC
• FAPESP's process: 19/27029-5 - Electrochemical carboxylation of organic molecules for the formation of high added value products
• Grantee: Jeyse Tawana da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)