(369c) Advances in High Temperature Electrolysis for Sustainable Hydrogen Production: Insights from Idaho National Laboratory's Renewable Energy Research Portfolio

Solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) are high-temperature ceramic devices that can convert electrical energy into chemical energy by splitting water molecules, offering a more efficient way of producing hydrogen than conventional methods. The high operating temperatures of SOECs offer greater thermodynamic efficiency at larger scales compared to other hydrogen production technologies, making them an attractive option for transitioning towards a hydrogen economy, as many governments worldwide have expressed great interest in recently. Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has steadily increased its research and testing efforts toward SOECs over the past decade, making it a leading institution in developing and advancing hydrogen and electrolysis technologies. INL's hydrogen research portfolio encompasses a range of capabilities, including high-throughput fundamental novel material/manufacturing research, accelerated stress testing of button cells, and the capacity to pilot test large-scale 25-250 kW SOEC systems. Fundamental materials research is essential for identifying novel materials with enhanced SOEC performance, such as improved conductivity and durability, or novel electrolytes, such as proton-conducting materials. INL applies advanced techniques to model and simulates SOEC unit operations, helping to identify optimal process parameters and design features. Accelerated stress testing (AST) of button cells and large planer cells used stacks allows for evaluating cell performance under real-world operating conditions. AST can be used to determine the effects of various stressors, including temperature, humidity, and modulated electrochemical testing. This information can then be used to optimize SOEC performance, identify key degradation factors, and recognize potential design or operational issues before full-scale implementation. Meanwhile, the pilot testing of large-scale SOEC systems provides valuable insight into the feasibility of commercial-scale production of novel stack designs. In addition to these core research areas, INL's hydrogen research portfolio includes investigations into advanced catalysts and reactor design, process optimization, control, and integrating SOECs with renewable/nuclear energy sources. State-of-the-art process engineering and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) measures ensure that findings are scientifically robust and practical, making them relevant to real-world applications. Overall, INL's hydrogen research portfolio is diverse and comprehensive, encompassing various capabilities and research areas.