Potential sweep vs current sweep for a Polarization Curve

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the methodology for obtaining polarization curves in fuel cell experiments, specifically using hydrochloric acid (HCl) as the electrolyte. The participants confirm that the standard approach involves applying a varying potential and measuring the resulting current, a technique known as voltammetry. The conversation highlights that the equipment in question is limited to voltage sweeping, which is not suitable for the desired current measurement. It is established that voltage is typically reported as a function of current density in the literature.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of voltammetry techniques in electrochemistry
  • Familiarity with polarization curves and their significance in fuel cell performance
  • Knowledge of fuel cell operation and the role of electrodes
  • Basic principles of electrochemical measurements and equipment
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of voltammetry and its applications in electrochemical analysis
  • Explore the differences between current-controlled and voltage-controlled methods in electrochemistry
  • Investigate the significance of current density in fuel cell performance metrics
  • Learn about the setup and operation of electrochemical measurement equipment for fuel cells
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrochemists, fuel cell researchers, and laboratory technicians involved in electrochemical measurements and fuel cell performance analysis.

JoJoQuinoa
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Hello,

I'm trying to obtain a polarization curve for a fuel cell (two electrodes in HCl). From what I've seen in literatures, current is applied and the voltage is measured. Is it still the same to change the voltage and measure the current instead? For some reason our equipment only have the voltage sweep option.

Thanks in advance!
 
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No, these would be different methods, requiring different hardware.

I admit that's the first time I hear about the "force current, measure voltage" approach. All electrochemical methods I have ever used were variants of voltammetry (vary potential, measure current). From what you wrote voltammetric methods are what your equipment is capable of.
 
Are you sure it is "current applied" and not "current drawn"?

Voltage drop under load is an important characteristics of any (chemical) battery.
 

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