How is the current density solved for in an electrolyzer unit?

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SUMMARY

The current density in an alkaline electrolyzer is calculated by dividing the current by the electrode surface area. In this context, the area of interest is the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte in the reaction volume of the electrolysis apparatus. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accurately determining this area to measure hydrogen production rates effectively. The use of a 9V battery, ammeter, and electrodes in the setup is also highlighted as a practical example of the electrolysis process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of alkaline electrolyzers
  • Knowledge of current density calculations
  • Familiarity with electrolysis principles
  • Basic electrical circuit concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the calculation of current density in electrolysis systems
  • Explore the role of electrode surface area in hydrogen production
  • Learn about the Tafel plot and its application in electrolysis
  • Investigate different types of electrolyzers and their efficiencies
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrochemists, engineers working with hydrogen production, and anyone involved in the design and optimization of electrolyzer units.

Shan43
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Hydrogen production rate is typically measured in current density, but what is the area in which the current is divided by to find such a value?
 
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Shan43 said:
Hydrogen production rate is typically measured in current density, but what is the area in which the current is divided by to find such a value?
Maybe the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte in the reaction volume of the electrolysis apparatus? Can you post some links to what you have been reading about electrolysis to help us understand your question better?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolysis

1641426785838.png
 
Electrode surface.
 
Tafel plot?
 
berkeman said:
Maybe the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte in the reaction volume of the electrolysis apparatus? Can you post some links to what you have been reading about electrolysis to help us understand your question better?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolysis

View attachment 295166
Well this wasn't based off of much reading per say, but for context I'm talking about an alkaline electrolyzer where a battery (9V battery that alligator clips can attatch to) serves as a power source and wires connect to an ammeter which would then connect to an electrode. The charge will flow through the electrolyte solution to other electrode which connects through a wire back to the battery on the negative end. What would the area the current should be divided by in this context?

Sorry for the late reply btw
 
Shan43 said:
The charge will flow through the electrolyte solution to other electrode which connects through a wire back to the battery on the negative end. What would the area the current should be divided by in this context?
It seems like Borek's reply applies Occam's Razor:
Borek said:
Electrode surface.
 
berkeman said:
It seems like Borek's reply applies Occam's Razor:
Ok, thank you guys very much!
 
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