(433e) Two-Dimensional Steady State Numerical Simulation of Electrochemical CO2 Conversion Using a Zero-Gap Electrolyzer

Zero-gap membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is emerging as a potential electrochemical reactor for the CO₂ conversion into value added products. MEA requires optimization of parameters such as local CO₂ concentration, local pH in the catalyst zone, and local water flow to the catalyst area. To obtain a better understanding of the local phenomena, a 2-D multiphysics numerical model is developed for MEA. Ideally wetted catalyst (assuming 64% saturation), and partially wetted catalyst using Van-Genuchten equation for capillary pressure have been modeled to mimic potential flooding scenarios in MEA. Kinetic parameters used in the MEA model are obtained from the data in the literature. The MEA model is validated with experimental data by comparing products current density and selectivity. A parametric study is conducted to investigate design and operating parameters of MEA including gas-diffusion layer thickness, catalyst layer thickness, catalyst layer porosity, membrane thickness, use of different electrolyte, and strength of an electrolyte.