Work

Time-resolved oxygen bubble dynamics in proton exchange membrane electrolyser

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Oxygen bubble formation at the anode of proton exchange membrane water electrolysers (PEMWEs) strongly influences electrocatalyst utilisation, mass-transport resistance, and cell efficiency. This work reports a new full-frame, millisecond-resolved experimental study of oxygen bubble dynamics on the anode porous transport layer (PTL) using high-speed imaging (2000 fps) and deep-learning segmentation in a transparent PEMWE. Bubble emergence, growth, detachment, and transport are quantified across a 38 mm optical window. Bubble emergence rates are two to three times higher near the outer PTL than at the centre. Transport preferentially follows a stable radial–angular direction aligned with anode-side flow imposed by the circular architecture and inlet–outlet configuration. Spatiotemporal mapping reveals persistent pathways not observable using snapshot-based imaging. These results provide quantitative insight into oxygen bubble transport heterogeneity and support bubble-management strategies for PEM water electrolysers.

Source: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2026.155749

Authors: Kinley Dorji, Dezso Sera, Jonathan Love, Simon Denman, Tobias Fischer, Anthony P. O'Mullane

Institutions: Queensland University of Technology, Central Queensland University

Language: English

Topic: Fuel Cells and Related Materials

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,730