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

In summary, the hydrogen production rate is typically measured in current density, which is calculated by dividing the current by the cross-sectional area of the electrolyte in the reaction volume of the electrolysis apparatus. This information was gathered from reading about electrolysis and discussing the topic with others. In the context of an alkaline electrolyzer, the area that the current should be divided by is the electrode surface.
  • #1
Shan43
7
2
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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  • #2
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
 
  • #3
Electrode surface.
 
  • #4
Tafel plot?
 
  • #5
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
 
  • #6
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.
 
  • #7
berkeman said:
It seems like Borek's reply applies Occam's Razor:
Ok, thank you guys very much!
 
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1. What is current density in an electrolyzer unit?

Current density is a measure of the amount of electric current flowing through a unit area of the electrolyzer unit. It is typically expressed in units of amperes per square meter (A/m²).

2. How is current density calculated in an electrolyzer unit?

To calculate current density in an electrolyzer unit, the total current passing through the unit is divided by the total surface area of the unit. This provides the average current density for the entire unit.

3. What factors affect current density in an electrolyzer unit?

The main factors that affect current density in an electrolyzer unit include the design and size of the unit, the type and concentration of electrolyte used, the temperature and pressure of the system, and the efficiency of the electrodes.

4. Why is current density important in an electrolyzer unit?

Current density is important in an electrolyzer unit because it directly affects the efficiency and performance of the unit. Higher current densities can lead to faster and more efficient production of desired products, but can also cause increased energy consumption and potential safety hazards.

5. How can current density be controlled in an electrolyzer unit?

Current density can be controlled in an electrolyzer unit by adjusting the voltage and current settings, as well as the design and materials of the electrodes. The concentration and temperature of the electrolyte can also be optimized to achieve desired current density levels.

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