Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT
Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT
Messtechniken für die Erzeugung von Wasserstoff
© Fraunhofer UMSICHT/Mike Henning

Measurement techniques for the hydrogen economy

© Fraunhofer UMSICHT/Mike Henning

Measurement techniques for the hydrogen economy

Maintaining and increasing the efficiency and long-term performance of hydrogen materials and processes

We have built a laboratory and pilot plant infrastructure for the hydrogen economy. It can be used for the targeted characterization, development and testing of the performance of materials, components and infrastructure for the production, storage and transport of hydrogen. Our focus: graphite-based composite bipolar plates, fuel cells and catalyst materials.

With our expertise in the application and interconnection of measurement methods and our infrastructure along the hydrogen processes, we drive material and process developments in the hydrogen sector. Our overarching goal is to optimize the efficiency and quality of the hydrogen produced through a targeted combination of our measurement techniques. Specifically, we can test thermal, pyhsyico-chemical and mechanical properties, combine high-precision imaging methods with state-of-the-art analytics and thus control material and component development for hydrogen storage materials, composite bipolar plates, fuel cells and catalyst materials. We are in a position to use our specialized infrastructure both in a network and for individual tasks in a targeted manner for industrial issues.

 

Our portfolio includes:

Measurement techniques for the quality assurance of composite bipolar plates

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  • The thermal properties of composite bipolar plates are crucial for fuel cell efficiency. Ensure that your materials perform optimally with the LFA 467.

    Your benefits at a glance:

    • Laser flash method measurement: Get accurate data on thermal diffusivity in the range of 0.01 to 2000 mm²/s and thermal conductivity from 0.1 to 4000 W/(m·K).
    • Wide temperature range: We perform measurements in the temperature range of 25°C to 500°C to test thermal properties under realistic operating conditions.
    • Wide range of sample geometries: Analyze thin foils (<0.2 mm) up to plates (<1 mm) both through and along the plate plane for comprehensive insights.

    By precisely testing the thermal properties of your composite bipolar plates, you lay the foundation for targeted optimization of the materials. This supports the efficiency of your fuel cells.

  • The surface structure of composite bipolar plates plays a crucial role in performance in fuel cells. Our digital microscope enables detailed surface examinations at up to 200x magnification to analyze your materials.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Detailed 2D measurements: We offer precise distance and area measurements for a comprehensive analysis of the surface structure of your bipolar plates.
    • Creation of 3D models: Visualize the surface structure of your materials to identify potential optimizations.
    • Optimization of material properties: Gain insights into surface structure to improve the performance of your composite bipolar plates.

    Our precise surface analysis helps you ensure the quality and efficiency of your composite bipolar plates and improve the performance of your fuel cells.

  • Composite bipolar plates are the heart of modern fuel cells and play a crucial role in hydrogen technology. To ensure the highest performance and durability, we offer specialized tensile and compression testing that tests the resilience of these key components under realistic conditions.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Precise testing: We test plastics and graphite-based composite bipolar plates (BPP) specifically for use in fuel cells.
    • Maximum test loads: 2 kN or 30 kN for a wide range of requirements
    • Test methods according to the standards DIN EN ISO 527-1 (tensile test) and DIN EN ISO 604 (compression test)
    • Climate chamber with a broad temperature spectrum of -50 °C to +350 °C for realistic conditions
    • Measurement of tensile and compressive force as well as travel for precise load analyses
    • Calculation of decisive characteristic values such as tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, fracture stress, compressive strength, compressive yield stress and nominal compression
    • Optical laser measurement for maximum precision
    • Flexible test scenarios thanks to various clamping jaws and sample securing options

    The pressure test also offers the option of testing the mechanical stability of the formed BPP under the influence of temperature. Our high-precision test methods enable you to ensure the quality and reliability of your composite bipolar plates and increase the efficiency of your fuel cells.

  • In hydrogen technology, the long-term stability of Materials is crucial. Our specialized creep and relaxation testing for thermoplastic-based composite bipolar foils guarantees that your fuel cells will function reliably under various loads.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Precise analysis: examination of creep and relaxation behavior under tensile and compressive stress, tailored to the requirements of fuel cells
    • Maximum test force of 10 kN: ideal for analyzing the mechanical properties of your bipolar plates under realistic conditions
    • Temperature range from 30 to 250 °C: simulation of operating conditions to test material stability over different temperatures
    • Precise deformation measurement: Detailed analysis of the behavior of your materials, which directly influences the performance of your fuel cells.
    • Reliable results for your applications: Ensure that your composite bipolar plates retain their functionality even under extreme conditions.

    Our comprehensive creep and relaxation testing helps you optimize the performance of your composite bipolar plates and gives you a decisive advantage in hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

  • In hydrogen technology, every detail counts – especially electrical resistance. Our specialized testing for graphite-based composite bipolar plates ensures that your fuel cells operate with minimal voltage loss – for maximum efficiency and performance.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Testing of conductive plate materials, ideal for graphite-based bipolar plates
    • Precise measurement of the voltage drop through the plate plane (through-plane voltage drop)
    • 4-electrode design to reduce contact and conduction losses
    • Maximum measurement accuracy up to 0.001 Ohm

    With our high-precision resistance testing, you can increase the efficiency of your composite bipolar plates and gain a decisive advantage in hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

  • Maximum efficiency for your hydrogen technology starts with the right conductivity of your composite bipolar plates. Our in-plane resistance test measures voltage losses along the plane of the plate to ensure that your fuel cells can achieve their full performance.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Testing of conductive plate materials, ideal for graphite-based composite bipolar plates
    • Exact measurement of voltage losses along the plate plane (in-plane)
    • 4-electrode design minimizes contact and conduction losses
    • Highest precision with a measurement accuracy of up to 0.01 s/cm

    Optimize the in-plane conductivity of your bipolar plates and increase the efficiency of your hydrogen fuel cells with our precise in-plane resistance test.

  • The tightness of composite bipolar plates is crucial for the efficiency of fuel cells in hydrogen technology. Our helium leak test enables efficient testing of the technical tightness of graphite-based composite bipolar plates to ensure that your systems work reliably.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Efficient leak testing: Use of a single-sided overpressure method up to 50 mbar to ensure the integrity of your materials
    • Testing according to DIN EN 1779: Adherence to the highest standards for leak testing, which ensures the quality of your composite bipolar plates
    • Variable contact pressures: Customizable contact pressures enable flexible analysis of tightness under different conditions.
    • Helium sensor for detection: Precise detection of helium as a tracer gas to verify the technical tightness of plates and welded joints.

    Our helium leak testing ensures that your composite bipolar plates meet the leak-tightness requirements.

  • The gas permeability of materials is a critical factor for the performance of composite bipolar plates in fuel cells. The Pubtester GTR-G3 gas permeability tester ensures that your fuel cells perform at their best.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Extensive test range: measure gas permeability from 0.05 to 50,000 cm³ m⁻² 24h⁻¹ bar⁻¹, ideal for analyzing graphite-based composite bipolar plates
    • Simultaneous testing: up to three samples can be tested independently, saving time and increasing efficiency in your testing process
    • Temperature flexibility: tests at temperatures between 5 and 95 °C, customized to the specific conditions of your applications
    • Versatile test gases: tests with He, H₂, and N₂ as well as a test pressure of up to 4 bar for a comprehensive analysis of gas permeability

    Our precise gas permeability testing helps you optimize the performance of your composite bipolar plates and gain a decisive advantage in hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

Measurement techniques for hydrogen storage materials and processes

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  • At UMSICHT, it is possible to determine the particle size of a powder using laser diffraction. A laser beam is directed through a sample with disperse particles, creating a diffraction pattern that depends on the size of the particles. By evaluating this diffraction pattern, a particle size distribution can be created.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Precise analysis: We enable the accurate determination of particle size distribution, which is crucial for the quality of materials.
    • Optimization of catalysts: The analysis supports the improvement of reaction kinetics and efficiency in hydrogen production.
    • Quality assurance: We ensure high-quality materials for hydrogen storage along the value chain.

    Precise particle size analysis lays the foundation for optimizing your materials in hydrogen technology.

  • The magnetic suspension balance at Fraunhofer UMSICHT is an analytical device used specifically for precise measurements of the sorption capacity of Materials under various environmental conditions. This balance uses magnetic suspension technology to provide extremely accurate weight measurement of the sample during the sorption process – without physical contact that could distort the result.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Precise measurements: We enable accurate weight measurements of mass changes under controlled temperature and pressure conditions.
    • Determining important properties: We support the analysis of porosity, surface chemistry and thermodynamic stability of materials.
    • Use in hydrogen technology: We analyze the sorption capacity of hydrogen storage materials under varying pressure and temperature conditions.

    By using the magnetic suspension balance, you lay the foundation for evaluating the efficiency and performance of materials used for hydrogen storage and transport.

  • In order to determine the mechanical strength of materials, an apparatus for determining rolling abrasion hardness was developed at Fraunhofer UMSICHT. In this apparatus, the resistance of materials to abrasion under rolling load is determined.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Lifespan determination: We enable the precise estimation of the lifespan of materials under real operating conditions.
    • Performance review: We evaluate the performance of materials in terms of their abrasion resistance.
    • Safety guarantee: We ensure that materials can withstand mechanical stress, which increases the safety of the applications.

    By measuring the rolling abrasion hardness, you can determine the durability of your materials and thus lay the foundation for the safety and efficiency of your hydrogen infrastructure. For example, we can test whether the catalyst for ammonia conversion to hydrogen remains stable in the reactor over the long term or can even be transported.

  • The Raman microscope at Fraunhofer UMSICHT is crucial for the non-destructive analysis of the molecular composition and structure of materials. It combines Raman spectroscopy with microscopic imaging to perform precise chemical composition analysis without damaging the sample.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Precise spectrum acquisition: A laser beam is used to capture material- and structure-specific spectra that promote an understanding of the properties of materials for the hydrogen economy, such as graphene or carbon nanotubes.
    • High-resolution images: The microscopic component enables the spatial distribution and orientation of molecules in complex structures to be determined precisely.
    • Analytical possibilities: This method can be used to analyze the chemical composition of hydrogen storage materials to identify optimization approaches.

    Our Raman microscopy ensures that you get accurate and reliable results for your materials research.

  • Raman-LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) combines two spectroscopic techniques for material analysis in a single instrument. Raman spectroscopy is used to examine chemical bonds and molecular dynamics of the sample, while LIBS determines specific elements and their concentrations.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Speed: We enable fast and efficient real-time analysis.
    • Detailed data: We provide both qualitative and quantitative information.
    • Versatility: Raman-LIBS is suitable for a variety of materials and applications, including contaminant monitoring.

    Our Raman-LIBS technology ensures that you receive precise and comprehensive results in material analysis and monitoring of your hydrogen production process, helping to optimize the efficiency and quality of the hydrogen produced.

Analytical methods for the composition and microscopic structure of innovative materials and electrodes

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  • NMR spectroscopy is an indispensable method in modern analysis, providing deep insights into the structure and composition of molecules, especially those containing hydrogen. With our state-of-the-art NMR systems, you have access to the full range of qualitative and quantitative analysis of organic and inorganic compounds.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Comprehensive analysis: qualitative and quantitative investigations of organic and inorganic compounds from a single source
    • Flexibility to meet your requirements: From high-performance 400 MHz systems to compact benchtop models for online analysis
    • Versatility: Measurement of various nuclei beyond 1H – e.g. ¹³C, ¹⁵N, ¹⁹F, and ³¹P
    • Precise structure elucidation through customized experimental methods for complex compounds

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  • X-ray microtomography is a groundbreaking technology for the non-destructive analysis of solids. With its ability to provide detailed 3D insights into a wide variety of materials, it opens up new possibilities for research, development and quality control of hydrogen technology components.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Versatile application possibilities: From research into new materials and quality assurance of entire electrolyzer cells to operando analysis
    • Effective defect detection: Identification of structural defects and inclusions
    • Support for additive manufacturing: Creation of precise models for 3D printing
    • Non-destructive analysis: Investigation without damaging the samples
    • High-precision 3D modeling: Detailed representation in the µm section

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Test stands for the qualification of your electrolysis technology

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  • Revolutionize CO2 utilization with our state-of-the-art laboratory test stand for CO2 electrolysis! Benefit from our extensive experience in water electrolysis and take advantage of the numerous technological overlaps for your CO2 electrolysis research. Our advanced laboratory test stand allows you to optimally research and develop this pioneering technology.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • Flexible cell sizes: Testing of materials and electrodes up to 100 cm²
    • Real-time gas analysis: Online analysis of H2, CO2, CO, CH4 and C2H4 via FTIR and TCD
    • Flexible electrolyte supply: Variable options for anolyte and catholyte
    • Versatile gas mixing: Flexible dosing of CO2, N2 and trace components
    • High pressure operation: Up to 3 bar(g) for realistic test conditions
    • Precise humidification: Humidifier unit with up to 120 g/h H2O
    • Powerful power supply: Power supply up to 150 A / 20 V
    • Comprehensive analysis options: Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS)
    • High flow rates: Up to 7 NL/min for scalable experiments

  • Revolutionize your hydrogen technology with our state-of-the-art PEM electrolysis test systems. Our comprehensive range of cell and stack testers and laboratory test stands enable you to optimally develop and optimize this pioneering PEM electrolysis technology, from material testing to long-term investigations.

    Your advantages at a glance:

    • High-performance testing: from laboratory cells to stacks with 10 kW power
      • Flexible power ranges: 2 kW, 10 kW and laboratory test stations for a wide range of applications
      • Precise control: separate anode and cathode circuits with ultrapure water
      • High-pressure operation: up to 30 bar(g) for realistic test conditions
      • Comprehensive analysis options: electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for mechanistic investigations
    • Cell voltage monitoring for up to 10 cells
    • Product gas flow measurement and gas analysis
      • Materials research: testing of MEAs, porous transport layers and bipolar plates
      • Temperature flexibility: operation at 30-80 °C for various application scenarios
      • Scalability: from laboratory scale to industry-related application

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