Low-voltage hydrogen production from formic acid: The role of different electrolysis parameters
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigates the electrolysis of formic acid for hydrogen production, focusing on the effects of various parameters and materials. In the first phase, experiments were conducted using a single-compartment electrolysis cell with Pd/Pt electrodes at 20°C. The effect of formic acid concentration, electrolytes, and electrode materials on current density was analyzed. The highest current density (5.18 mA/cm² at 1 V) was achieved with H₂SO₄ as an electrolyte. The Zn/Zn electrode pair significantly outperformed Pd/Pt, yielding four times higher current density. In the second phase, electrolysis conditions for hydrogen production at low voltage (2 V) and temperature (50°C) were optimized. Pure hydrogen was obtained at the cathode, confirming the successful hydrogen production under these conditions. Faradic efficiency reached 92% at 2 V, with a high hydrogen production rate. The use of cost-effective Zn electrode, along with mild electrolysis conditions, enhances the practicality and sustainability of the process. These findings highlight that formic acid electrolysis is a promising and efficient method for pure hydrogen production, offering an economical and sustainable alternative for hydrogen generation.
Source: Journal of Polytechnic
Authors: Özgü Yörük, Duygu Uysal, Özkan Murat Doğan
Institution: Gazi University
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409840320