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For people, place, prosperity and planet, we deliver impact with measurement science

Hydrogen technology

Electrolyser measurements

High quality measurements of electrolyser performance and durability 

Capabilities

NPL offers testing of polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysers (PEMWE) from single cells to ca. 10 kW short stacks. Routine testing of performance and durability of components and cells can be complimented by more advanced techniques such as voltage deconvolution using in situ reference electrodes. Testing is performed on state-of-the-art test benches and is usually fully automated to ensure the highest quality data. 

NPL also offers performance testing of anion exchange membrane water electrolysers (AEMWE) and alkaline water electrolysers (AWE) single cells in the range 5 - 25 cm2. 

Drawing on NPL’s broader expertise we’re also able to embed electrolyser testing activities as part of larger scientific investigations for example by performing post-mortem investigations with microscopy, spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques. 

Our current PEMWE capabilities include: 

  • Single cell testing from 4 cm2 cells to ca. 50 cm2 (300 A max.) 
  • Short stack testing up to 10 kW 
  • Testing from 0 to 50 barg, symmetrical or differential pressure 
  • Voltammetry (CVs, LSVs) 
  • Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy 
  • Voltage deconvolution via reference electrode 
  • Access to standardised hardware 
  • Online gas analysis by μGC 
  • Post-mortem analysis 

Our current AWE and AEM capabilities include: 

  • Single cell testing from 4 cm2 to 25 cm2 
  • 0 to 50 wt% KOH 
  • 30 to 90 °C electrolyte supply. 

Experience

We are particularly involved in national efforts to develop and communicate best practice for AEM and AEMWE testing. We also specialise in deconvoluting anode and cathode overpotentials in PEMWE using in situ reference electrodes.

Our services

As a government owned research laboratory, we’re trusted by our partners to maintain confidentially, and our opinion is respected by both investors and policy makers. If you’re looking for a partner in hydrogen technologies, explore what we can do for you: