3D Electrodes for an Integrated Battery-Electrolyser

The battolyser™, which is based on a nickel iron battery, functions both as a battery, and when overcharged, as an alkaline water electrolyser for the production of H2. In times of renewable energy oversupply, i.e. low energy prices, the battery electrodes are charged and subsequently produce H2 and O2. Conversely, in times of undersupply of renewables, i.e. high energy prices, energy stored in the battery electrodes can be discharged back to the grid. This flexibility in operation results in a high utilisation factor despite the fluctuating energy output of renewables. However, the electrodes employed in conventional nickel-iron batteries are not designed for this dual application. The goal of this thesis is the development of hybrid battery-electrolyser nickel and iron electrodes that provide both a high areal battery storage capacity and allow for efficient electrolysis at industrially relevant current densities...