Boosting New Electrochemical Reactor Designs to Improve the Performance in H₂O₂ Production Using Gas Diffusion Electrodes

Author(s)

Silva, Taynara Oliveira ; Granados-Fernandez, Rafael ; Lobato, Justo ; Lanza, Marcos R. V. ; Rodrigo, Manuel Andres

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING; v. N/A, p. 11-pg., 2025-02-20.

Abstract

This work presents a novel electrochemical cell design, developed using 3D printing technology, which enhances turbulence within the cell to promote increased hydrogen peroxide production. This new design is compared to a conventional flow cell that utilizes the same electrodes, membrane, and interelectrode distance, which has demonstrated strong performance in previous studies. Fluid dynamics and H2O2 production are analyzed in both reactors to assess their performance. Additionally, a scale factor of 12.5 is applied to the new concept to evaluate its effectiveness on a larger scale and increase the technology readiness level (TRL). The results demonstrate Faradaic efficiencies of 90% and energy consumption as low as 13 kW h kg-1, placing them among the highest reported in the literature. The use of identical materials and operating conditions underscores the critical role of mechanical design in electrochemical cells, suggesting that future research in environmental electrochemical technology should prioritize cell designs tailored to specific target processes. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/10118-0 - Study and application of electrochemical technology for the analysis and degradation of endocrine interferents: materials, sensors, processes and scientific dissemination
• Grantee: Marcos Roberto de Vasconcelos Lanza
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 19/08701-4 - Hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis recharging gas thickness electrodes (EDG) modified with combined nanostructured metal oxides
• Grantee: Taynara Oliveira Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• FAPESP's process: 22/07227-0 - Gas diffusion electrode based on carbon modified with benzophenone applied to co-generation of oxidants radicals in a reactor cell
• Grantee: Taynara Oliveira Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate (Direct)