Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis

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PEM water electrolysis simply splits deionized water (H2O) into its constituent parts, hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2), on either side of a solid polymer electrolyte membrane. When a DC voltage is applied to the electrolyzer, water fed to the anode (or oxygen electrode) is oxidized to oxygen and protons, while electrons are released. The protons (H+ ions) pass through the PEM to the cathode (or hydrogen electrode), where they meet electrons from the other side of the circuit, and are reduced to hydrogen gas.

Related glossary terms:

Modular design (C, H, M series) 

Reductive agent

Catalytic atmosphere

Alkaline water electrolysis

Alkaline water electrolysis utilizes two electrodes operating in a liquid alkaline electrolyte solution, usually potassium hydroxide (KOH). Potassium hydroxide is a strong base and is caustic. When

Ammonia (fertilizer)

Artificial nitrogen fixation is the main industrial procedure for the production of ammonia today. It converts atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia by a reaction with hydrogen

Anaerobic digestion

Breaking down organic material in the absence of air or oxygen. Anaerobic digestion of organic matter creates methane and carbon dioxide, which can be reformed,

Analytical instruments

Devices which evaluate the composition, weight, or other particulars of a substance, compound, or mixture. Examples of analytical instruments include: chromatography columns; spectrometers; elemental analyzers;

Anion exchange membrane (AEM)

An anion exchange membrane acts as a semipermeable membrane through which anions permeate while oxygen or hydrogen are impermeable through the membrane in an electrochemical reaction. This exchange process

Annealing

A heat treatment where you heat a metal (or glass) above its recrystallization temperature, maintain the temperature, then allow it to cool. Annealing is conducted

Argon purification

Argon is produced by the fractional distillation of liquid air. Mostly used as an inert shielding gas in welding and high-temperature industrial processes, argon purification

Balloon filling

Using gas generators to fill large balloons. Typically referred to in meteorological applications such as filling weather balloons. Hydrogen gas generators are efficient and cost

Bench-top generators

Efficiently-sized equipment intended to save valuable workbench space in the laboratory. Bench-top generators are able to be used from, and save space on a lab bench.

Biogas

Gas fuel derived from the digestion of biological waste materials such as sewage, garbage, and crops.

Biomethane

A naturally developed form of methane. Biomethane is produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic matter.

Brazing

A process through which multiple metal items are connected by melting and applying a filler metal into a joint. Filler metals have a lower melting

Carbon dioxide compression

Carbon dioxide compression refers to the process and progression of pressurizing (compressing) Carbon dioxide (CO2) as a gas. Carbon dioxide has a very low reactivity as

Carbon molecular sieves

A molecular sieve is a material with small pores of uniform size. These pore diameters are small enough to allow small molecules to pass through, however large

Carrier gas

In gas chromatography, a carrier gas is used as the solvent through which the various components of a compound can be separated, analyzed, identified, and

Catalytic atmosphere

Catalytic atmospheres are developed when a catalyst is introduced to a solution of reactant substances under an inert atmosphere in a pressure vessel.

Catalyzers

A stimulant which allows for a process to occur, usually at an accelerated rate.

Cell stack

The primary electrochemical component in a fuel cell electrolysis system. Cell stacks convert chemical energy to electricity (and vice versa) through an electrochemical reaction involving

Chemical synthesis

The reaction through which two elements or compounds are reacted in order to combine the two elements or compounds. Often Chemical synthesis forms the desired product, and

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s)

Harmful chemicals released as a derivative of ethane and methane. Chlorofluorocarbons contain carbon, chlorine, and fluorine; they are often present in aerosol sprays, foams, solvents,

Coatings

A coating is a covering that is applied to the surface of an object, usually referred to as the substrate. Coatings may be applied to

Cold start

The ability for a unit to be started and functional without a warm-up period.  Example: Nel’s M Series hydrogen gas generators are able to be started and

Corrosion control

In the power industry, production managers regularly monitor their equipment for corrosion. Aside from the damage to facility equipment, the presence of corrosion can result

Crystal growth

Crystal growth is a fundamental and extremely important stage in the crystallization process. Crystal growth is where the crystalline lattice is arranged, forming the characteristic shape

Curtailed power

Power that has been given restriction in cost or use. Curtailing is often performed in order to direct or focus power use elsewhere, often during periods of peak power use. During

Delivered bottled gases / cylinders: high pressure cylinders

A pressurized gas cylinder or tank that is able to be transported via tube trailers or other methods of transportation. Bottled gases / cylinders, and high pressure cylinders are synonymous for a pressure

Delivered gas

The physical transfer of natural, synthetic, and/or supplemental gas from generation facilities to end users, in order to serve broad set of applications requiring gases;

Dew point

The temperature where, at a constant barometric pressure, water vapor condenses to aqueous water.

Direct injection

Direct Injection is the process of mixing the electrolysis-produced hydrogen into the natural gas pipeline without first further converting it to methane. A small concentration

Dissociated ammonia

A gas or atmosphere composed of a mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen. This gas or atmosphere is known as ”dissociated ammonia” as a result of the products

Electric generators

A device or equipment that creates electrical power from mechanical power. The electrical power that is produced flows through an external circuit to a final

Electrochemical ammonia synthesis

The synthesis of nitrogen and hydrogen to create ammonia using electrochemical synthesis.  Nel electrochemical gas generators can be used to generate the ammonia needed, at any specific

Electrochemical compression

When hydrogen is produced by PEM electrolysis, the generation pressure can be increased internally to the cell through the process of electrochemical compression. In a

Electrolysis

A process in which a chemical change, especially decomposition, is brought about by passing an electric current through a solution of electrolytes so that the

Energy storage

The preservation and management of energy produced at one time, to be used at a subsequent time. For example, Nel hydrogen generators can be used to

Epitaxy

The application of a crystalline coat (overlayer) to a given crystalline substrate to grow or mimic the substrate. Gases such as hydrogen can be used

Exo or endo gas

Gas that inhibits or reverses oxidation on the surfaces it comes in contact with. A product of incomplete combustion in a controlled environment. Examples include hydrogen,

External compressed air

Air that has been pressurized using an unrelated, or independent pressurization device.

External impurities

External pollutants that are not a result of the unit being used. These unwanted pollutants could negatively affect the purity or operation of the unit in

Field upgradeable

Able to be improved, or modified, in the operator’s field of work (laboratories, warehouses etc.).

Flow battery

A flow battery is a rechargeable electrochemical device in which electrolytes containing electroactive elements flow through a cell membrane that converts chemical energy into electricity.

Fuel cell

A device that converts the chemical energy from hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical reaction. An oxidant such as oxygen is also required, and fuel cells can produce electricity

Fuel cell power

When a hydrogen-rich fuel (i.e. clean natural gas or renewable biogas) enters the a cell stack it reacts electrochemically with oxygen (i.e. ambient air) to

Fuel cell testing

A fuel cell test offers the ability to automatically test, control, and monitor the performance of fuel cells and stacks.

Fuel cell vehicles (FCV)

An electric drive vehicle that uses a fuel cell as the source of the electrical energy. Like all electric vehicles, FCV’s are zero emission vehicles (ZEV),

Fuel gas

A fuel, that under standard temperature and pressure, is gaseous in nature. The hydrogen (H2) produced by Nel hydrogen gas generators can be used as

Fueling

To provide a source of energy to a device or vehicle. To supply a device or vehicle with fuel.

Fully-automated design

A design by which an operator is not required. A fully-automated design controls (automates) itself through a network of sensors and programs which regulate speed,

Gas chromatography (GC)

Gas chromatography is a technique used to separate and analyze compounds that can be vaporized without being decomposed. The stationary phase is coated along the

Gas purification

Distillation of impurities, or unwanted components, from a gaseous mixture. Gas purification is usually used to separate, or isolate, one specific compound or element.

Gas supply / supply methods

Hydrogen is generally supplied by two methods: bulk hydrogen delivery usually sourced from large natural gas reformation plants and packaged in cylinders / tube trailers

Generator capacity

The generator capacity is the maximum electrical power output for a given power generating unit, usually defined in Megawatts.

Generator casings

The enclosure for an electric power generator that defines the sealed space that contains the hydrogen gas used to provide cooling to the generator windings.

Generator cooling

Hydrogen is used to cool the windings of large power plant generators because of hydrogen’s high heat capacity and low density. Power plants utilizing hydrogen-cooled

Generator lifespan

The life expectancy, or estimated duration of use before termination, or overhaul maintenance is required.

Glass processing

Glass processing is the production of large sheets of glass by floating molten glass on a bed of molten metal (typically tin).

Green initiatives

Counteracting the creation of greenhouse gases created from common activities and energy production by finding, producing, and utilizing clean alternative energy sources.

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

The release of harmful gases into the atmosphere that absorb infrared radiation, causing the atmospheric temperature to rise. Common greenhouse gases include: carbon dioxide, methane, and chlorofluorocarbon(s)

Grid parity

The point where an alternative energy source is cheaper than, or equal in cost, to purchasing power from the grid. Grid parity is determined through

Grid power

A series of interconnected electrical power generating stations, linked by transmission lines, which carry electrical power to consumers. Traditional power grids transmit power from a

Grid stability

The reliability and consistency in power or electricity production. Solar power has poor grid stability because of unreliable sunlight hours and the potential for cloud

Heat treating

Heat treating is often used to alter the physical properties of a material. Heat treatment is most frequently used to increase a materials ductility and

Hermetic sealing

The quality of being airtight, waterproof and sealed (sometimes using a vacuum).

Hydrocarbon

A compound that consists of both hydrogen and carbon molecules. Hydrocarbons are common natural substances. Hydrocarbons are the primary components in petroleum and natural gases.

Hydrogen delivery supply

Delivered hydrogen gas is often transported in three 3 channels: cylinders, tube trailers and liquid tanks. A gas cylinder or tank is a pressure vessel used to store gases at above atmospheric pressure. High-pressure gas

Hydrogen energy

The combination of hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. The production of hydrogen electricity produces heat and water as byproducts. Nel hydrogen gas generators fuel a variety of hydrogen fuel cells

Hydrogen gas generator

A unit that generates hydrogen on-site via chemical reactions. Unlike other chemical reactions that produce greenhouse gases during the process of hydrogen generation, water electrolysis

Hydrogen supply methods

Different methods through which hydrogen can be supplied industrially or in a laboratory setting. Hydrogen is generally supplied by two methods: bulk hydrogen delivery usually sourced from

Hydrogenation

To “treat” or chemically combine an unsaturated compound, often a fat or oil, with hydrogen.

Isotope separation

Isotope separation is the process of strategically concentrating specific isotopes of a chemical element by through the removal of other isotopes.

Lab server

Nel’s S-series hydrogen gas generator is also referred to as a lab server because of its ability to serve multiple laboratory applications from a single source.

Lift gas

A gas that can be used to lift a desired heavy and dense fluid to the surface, or higher than its current level. Lift gases

Liquefied gas (liquid gas)

A gas that has been turned into a liquid by cooling or compressing it. Examples of liquefied gases include liquid air, liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, liquid nitrogen.

Liquid chromatography (LC)

Liquid chromatography is a technique used to separate a compound or mixture into its various parts. In order to do so, a mobile phase, a

Liquid supply

A gas that has been turned into a liquid by cooling or compression, then transported and supplied in this liquid state. Examples of liquefied gases include liquid air, liquefied natural

Manufacturer

The original producer of a product, analytical instrument or piece of equipment, that our gas generators serve for laboratory applications.

Material processing applications

Industrial operations that require various mechanical or chemical procedures, usually in large quantities or batches, during the manufacture of raw-materials into finished goods. These processes

Membrane

A barrier which allows specific elements or compounds to permeate, while other elements, compounds, or impurities, are separated or filtered. The barriers (membranes) in our

Membrane technology

Compressed air is forced into a vessel containing a hollow tube in the middle surrounded by a polymeric hollow fiber. These hollow fibers selectively permeate O2,

Metal injection molding

A form of metalworking that uses finely-powdered metal and a binding agent to precisely “inject” metal in order to create complex and precise metal-based products

Meteorology or meteorological uses (Met)

Able to be used in weather-related systems or for meteorological purposes. Nel hydrogen gas generators are often used to fill weather balloons cheaply and effectively. Using other expensive

Methanation (methanisation)

The derivation of methane from digesting organic matter, in the absence of air or oxygen. Hydrogen can increase the conversion rate to methane from 60%

Microbial fuel cell

A bio-electrochemical fuel cell that drives a current using bacteria and by mimicking bacterial processes and interactions that can be found naturally.

MOCVD

Metal-Organic Chemical Vapour Deposition is a technique used for growing crystalline layers into multilayer structures. In this process, UHP gases are used to deposit a

MODBUS

A serial communication protocol that is used to connect one, or multiple industrial electronic devices. Serial communication allows for the transmission of data between many

Modular design (C, H, M series) 

An approach to design that subdivides a larger system into smaller parts often referred to as skids or modules. The skids can be independently created

Natural gas grid

The storage and distribution system for natural gas.

Natural gas reforming

Natural gas reforming includes various types of gas reformation techniques that produce hydrogen from existing natural gases. Hydrogen produced from this process is referred to

Nitrogen blanketing

Nitrogen can be used to purge heat treat furnaces and reflow solder baths which prevents oxidation of the metal surface and minimizes dross generation. Nitrogen

Nitrogen generator

Nitrogen generators are designed to utilize an existing air source and produce nitrogen on demand. Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere.

Nitrogen purifier regeneration

Hydrogen is used as an agent to regenerate the catalysts used in nitrogen purifiers for semiconductor nitrogen process gas supply.

On-stream time

The time that a unit is operating or producing a product.

Palladium purifiers

A purifier consisted of a palladium and silver alloy tube that allows only monoatomic hydrogen to pass through its crystal lattice at a given extreme

Permit restrictions

The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) impose restrictions on the amount of flammable gases that can be stored on-site facility premises. On-site hydrogen generation removes

Plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD)

PECVD is a process that deposits thin films from a vapor to a solid state on a substrate. A result of a chemical reaction, this

PLC (programmable logic controller)

A programmable computer, or program, used to automate electromechanical processes. PLC’s are often used to operate and control the automated machines in assembly lines.

Powder metallurgy

Powder metallurgy is a process in which materials or components are made from metal powders.

Powder processing

Powder processing is a term that refers to the industrial sintering, pressing compression, rolling, and/ or extrusion of powders.

Power plant

A facility that generates electrical power for distribution, usually on an industrial scale.

Power-to-gas

A technology that converts electrical power to a gaseous fuel. In this process, excess power is utilized in order to generate hydrogen via electrolysis. The stored

Power-to-Power

Power-to-Power employs electrolysis technology to generate hydrogen from renewable resources such as wind and solar power. The hydrogen is then stored for future use and

Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) technology

PSA technology separates nitrogen molecules from the other gas molecules by the carbon molecular sieves (CMS). Alternating between both CMS columns, firstly O2, moisture, hydrocarbons,

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis

PEM water electrolysis simply splits deionized water (H2O) into its constituent parts, hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2), on either side of a solid polymer electrolyte

Pumped hydro (pumped-storage hydroelectricity)

A form of energy storage in which excess electricity is used to pump water uphill to a reservoir. When power is needed, the stored water

Purge airflow system

Used to flush electrical equipment with clean air. Flushing occurs before the electrical device is started. This is done to ensure that any contaminants that

Purifier regeneration

Purifier regeneration is the process of removing impurities from saturated media. This cleans purifiers so they can be used over again. This process is supported

Purity control

Hydrogen is used as a cooling atmosphere in power plants across the globe because during operation, currents flowing through electric power generators produce large amounts

Reductive agent

An element or compound that transfers electrons to another chemical agent in a reaction.  Hydrogen is commonly used to provide a reductive atmosphere in material processing applications.

Refining

An oil refinery or petroleum refinery is an industrial process plant where crude oil is processed and refined into more useful products such as petroleum

Renewable energy

Energy collected from naturally produced, and regenerative resources. Some examples of renewable energy sources include: hydro, wind, tidal, geothermal, and solar.

Research grade

Reliable, safe, secure, consistent, and pure. Research grade hydrogen has an incredibly high purity level; does not contain any contaminants, unwanted compounds, or elements, that

Sample concentration

The purity or amount of a given component in a sample. Nel hydrogen gas generators have the ability produce hydrogen at a concentration of 99.999995% hydrogen. With

Sample evaporation

The temperature and pressure at which a sample becomes gaseous in composition.

Seed crystal

A crystal, or polycrystal (polycrystalline) material from which larger crystals of the same crystalline structure grow from. Typically, the seed crystal is a small scale crystal from

Semiconductor

A substance that has conductivity (resistance levels) greater than that of an insulator, but less than most conductors. Hydrogen gas is used in wet oxidation

SMR (steam methane reforming)

The process through which methane, and high temperature steam, react under pressure to produce hydrogen. This reaction between methane and steam creates carbon dioxide, a

Supply and demand mismatch

When the inventory of a product surpasses, or does not meet, the consumers desire of a product. Solar energy often experiences periods of supply and

Thermal spray

A technique used to coat an object or surface by melting a coating material and spraying it at a high velocity onto a surface. There are many thermal spraying

Tube trailers

Used to transport or store large quantities of pressurized gas, or liquid gas, in cylinders or other vessels. These cylinders are attached to a trailer.

Ultra pure

Used to transport or store large quantities of pressurized gas, or liquid gas, in cylinders or other vessels. These cylinders are attached to a trailer.

Water electrolysis

Water Electrolysis is the process of splitting water molecules (H2O) into oxygen (O2) and hydrogen gas (H2) with electric current passing through the water. Two of

Welding

Welding is a fabrication process that joins materials, usually metals or thermoplastics, by creating a fusion.

Zero air generator

Generators that produce air with low hydrocarbon contents in order to perform analysis. Zero air generators are designed to utilize existing air sources and produce on demand.

Zero-emission fuel

Emits no pollutants or waste product when burned or utilized. Hydrogen is a zero-emission fuel because it only produces heat and water when utilized in a fuel cell.

Zero-inventory design

No required storage or build up. The unit only uses what is required at the given time. This eliminates the risk and need for storing

Argon purification

Argon is produced by the fractional distillation of liquid air. Mostly used as an inert shielding gas in welding and high-temperature industrial processes, argon purification

Annealing

A heat treatment where you heat a metal (or glass) above its recrystallization temperature, maintain the temperature, then allow it to cool. Annealing is conducted

Anion exchange membrane (AEM)

An anion exchange membrane acts as a semipermeable membrane through which anions permeate while oxygen or hydrogen are impermeable through the membrane in an electrochemical reaction. This exchange process

Analytical instruments

Devices which evaluate the composition, weight, or other particulars of a substance, compound, or mixture. Examples of analytical instruments include: chromatography columns; spectrometers; elemental analyzers;

Anaerobic digestion

Breaking down organic material in the absence of air or oxygen. Anaerobic digestion of organic matter creates methane and carbon dioxide, which can be reformed,

Ammonia (fertilizer)

Artificial nitrogen fixation is the main industrial procedure for the production of ammonia today. It converts atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia by a reaction with hydrogen

Alkaline water electrolysis

Alkaline water electrolysis utilizes two electrodes operating in a liquid alkaline electrolyte solution, usually potassium hydroxide (KOH). Potassium hydroxide is a strong base and is caustic. When

Brazing

A process through which multiple metal items are connected by melting and applying a filler metal into a joint. Filler metals have a lower melting

Biomethane

A naturally developed form of methane. Biomethane is produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic matter.

Biogas

Gas fuel derived from the digestion of biological waste materials such as sewage, garbage, and crops.

Bench-top generators

Efficiently-sized equipment intended to save valuable workbench space in the laboratory. Bench-top generators are able to be used from, and save space on a lab bench.

Balloon filling

Using gas generators to fill large balloons. Typically referred to in meteorological applications such as filling weather balloons. Hydrogen gas generators are efficient and cost

Curtailed power

Power that has been given restriction in cost or use. Curtailing is often performed in order to direct or focus power use elsewhere, often during periods of peak power use. During

Crystal growth

Crystal growth is a fundamental and extremely important stage in the crystallization process. Crystal growth is where the crystalline lattice is arranged, forming the characteristic shape

Corrosion control

In the power industry, production managers regularly monitor their equipment for corrosion. Aside from the damage to facility equipment, the presence of corrosion can result

Cold start

The ability for a unit to be started and functional without a warm-up period.  Example: Nel’s M Series hydrogen gas generators are able to be started and

Coatings

A coating is a covering that is applied to the surface of an object, usually referred to as the substrate. Coatings may be applied to

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s)

Harmful chemicals released as a derivative of ethane and methane. Chlorofluorocarbons contain carbon, chlorine, and fluorine; they are often present in aerosol sprays, foams, solvents,

Chemical synthesis

The reaction through which two elements or compounds are reacted in order to combine the two elements or compounds. Often Chemical synthesis forms the desired product, and

Cell stack

The primary electrochemical component in a fuel cell electrolysis system. Cell stacks convert chemical energy to electricity (and vice versa) through an electrochemical reaction involving

Catalyzers

A stimulant which allows for a process to occur, usually at an accelerated rate.

Catalytic atmosphere

Catalytic atmospheres are developed when a catalyst is introduced to a solution of reactant substances under an inert atmosphere in a pressure vessel.

Carrier gas

In gas chromatography, a carrier gas is used as the solvent through which the various components of a compound can be separated, analyzed, identified, and

Carbon molecular sieves

A molecular sieve is a material with small pores of uniform size. These pore diameters are small enough to allow small molecules to pass through, however large

Dissociated ammonia

A gas or atmosphere composed of a mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen. This gas or atmosphere is known as ”dissociated ammonia” as a result of the products

Direct injection

Direct Injection is the process of mixing the electrolysis-produced hydrogen into the natural gas pipeline without first further converting it to methane. A small concentration

Dew point

The temperature where, at a constant barometric pressure, water vapor condenses to aqueous water.

Delivered gas

The physical transfer of natural, synthetic, and/or supplemental gas from generation facilities to end users, in order to serve broad set of applications requiring gases;

Delivered bottled gases / cylinders: high pressure cylinders

A pressurized gas cylinder or tank that is able to be transported via tube trailers or other methods of transportation. Bottled gases / cylinders, and high pressure cylinders are synonymous for a pressure

External impurities

External pollutants that are not a result of the unit being used. These unwanted pollutants could negatively affect the purity or operation of the unit in

External compressed air

Air that has been pressurized using an unrelated, or independent pressurization device.

Exo or endo gas

Gas that inhibits or reverses oxidation on the surfaces it comes in contact with. A product of incomplete combustion in a controlled environment. Examples include hydrogen,

Epitaxy

The application of a crystalline coat (overlayer) to a given crystalline substrate to grow or mimic the substrate. Gases such as hydrogen can be used

Energy storage

The preservation and management of energy produced at one time, to be used at a subsequent time. For example, Nel hydrogen generators can be used to

Electrolysis

A process in which a chemical change, especially decomposition, is brought about by passing an electric current through a solution of electrolytes so that the

Electrochemical compression

When hydrogen is produced by PEM electrolysis, the generation pressure can be increased internally to the cell through the process of electrochemical compression. In a

Electrochemical ammonia synthesis

The synthesis of nitrogen and hydrogen to create ammonia using electrochemical synthesis.  Nel electrochemical gas generators can be used to generate the ammonia needed, at any specific

Electric generators

A device or equipment that creates electrical power from mechanical power. The electrical power that is produced flows through an external circuit to a final

Fully-automated design

A design by which an operator is not required. A fully-automated design controls (automates) itself through a network of sensors and programs which regulate speed,

Fueling

To provide a source of energy to a device or vehicle. To supply a device or vehicle with fuel.

Fuel gas

A fuel, that under standard temperature and pressure, is gaseous in nature. The hydrogen (H2) produced by Nel hydrogen gas generators can be used as

Fuel cell vehicles (FCV)

An electric drive vehicle that uses a fuel cell as the source of the electrical energy. Like all electric vehicles, FCV’s are zero emission vehicles (ZEV),

Fuel cell testing

A fuel cell test offers the ability to automatically test, control, and monitor the performance of fuel cells and stacks.

Fuel cell power

When a hydrogen-rich fuel (i.e. clean natural gas or renewable biogas) enters the a cell stack it reacts electrochemically with oxygen (i.e. ambient air) to

Fuel cell

A device that converts the chemical energy from hydrogen into electricity through an electrochemical reaction. An oxidant such as oxygen is also required, and fuel cells can produce electricity

Flow battery

A flow battery is a rechargeable electrochemical device in which electrolytes containing electroactive elements flow through a cell membrane that converts chemical energy into electricity.

Field upgradeable

Able to be improved, or modified, in the operator’s field of work (laboratories, warehouses etc.).

Grid stability

The reliability and consistency in power or electricity production. Solar power has poor grid stability because of unreliable sunlight hours and the potential for cloud

Grid power

A series of interconnected electrical power generating stations, linked by transmission lines, which carry electrical power to consumers. Traditional power grids transmit power from a

Grid parity

The point where an alternative energy source is cheaper than, or equal in cost, to purchasing power from the grid. Grid parity is determined through

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

The release of harmful gases into the atmosphere that absorb infrared radiation, causing the atmospheric temperature to rise. Common greenhouse gases include: carbon dioxide, methane, and chlorofluorocarbon(s)

Green initiatives

Counteracting the creation of greenhouse gases created from common activities and energy production by finding, producing, and utilizing clean alternative energy sources.

Glass processing

Glass processing is the production of large sheets of glass by floating molten glass on a bed of molten metal (typically tin).

Generator lifespan

The life expectancy, or estimated duration of use before termination, or overhaul maintenance is required.

Generator cooling

Hydrogen is used to cool the windings of large power plant generators because of hydrogen’s high heat capacity and low density. Power plants utilizing hydrogen-cooled

Generator casings

The enclosure for an electric power generator that defines the sealed space that contains the hydrogen gas used to provide cooling to the generator windings.

Generator capacity

The generator capacity is the maximum electrical power output for a given power generating unit, usually defined in Megawatts.

Gas supply / supply methods

Hydrogen is generally supplied by two methods: bulk hydrogen delivery usually sourced from large natural gas reformation plants and packaged in cylinders / tube trailers

Gas purification

Distillation of impurities, or unwanted components, from a gaseous mixture. Gas purification is usually used to separate, or isolate, one specific compound or element.

Hydrogenation

To “treat” or chemically combine an unsaturated compound, often a fat or oil, with hydrogen.

Hydrogen supply methods

Different methods through which hydrogen can be supplied industrially or in a laboratory setting. Hydrogen is generally supplied by two methods: bulk hydrogen delivery usually sourced from

Hydrogen gas generator

A unit that generates hydrogen on-site via chemical reactions. Unlike other chemical reactions that produce greenhouse gases during the process of hydrogen generation, water electrolysis

Hydrogen energy

The combination of hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. The production of hydrogen electricity produces heat and water as byproducts. Nel hydrogen gas generators fuel a variety of hydrogen fuel cells

Hydrogen delivery supply

Delivered hydrogen gas is often transported in three 3 channels: cylinders, tube trailers and liquid tanks. A gas cylinder or tank is a pressure vessel used to store gases at above atmospheric pressure. High-pressure gas

Hydrocarbon

A compound that consists of both hydrogen and carbon molecules. Hydrocarbons are common natural substances. Hydrocarbons are the primary components in petroleum and natural gases.

Hermetic sealing

The quality of being airtight, waterproof and sealed (sometimes using a vacuum).

Heat treating

Heat treating is often used to alter the physical properties of a material. Heat treatment is most frequently used to increase a materials ductility and

Isotope separation

Isotope separation is the process of strategically concentrating specific isotopes of a chemical element by through the removal of other isotopes.

Liquid supply

A gas that has been turned into a liquid by cooling or compression, then transported and supplied in this liquid state. Examples of liquefied gases include liquid air, liquefied natural

Liquid chromatography (LC)

Liquid chromatography is a technique used to separate a compound or mixture into its various parts. In order to do so, a mobile phase, a

Liquefied gas (liquid gas)

A gas that has been turned into a liquid by cooling or compressing it. Examples of liquefied gases include liquid air, liquefied natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, liquid nitrogen.

Lift gas

A gas that can be used to lift a desired heavy and dense fluid to the surface, or higher than its current level. Lift gases

Lab server

Nel’s S-series hydrogen gas generator is also referred to as a lab server because of its ability to serve multiple laboratory applications from a single source.

Modular design (C, H, M series) 

An approach to design that subdivides a larger system into smaller parts often referred to as skids or modules. The skids can be independently created

MODBUS

A serial communication protocol that is used to connect one, or multiple industrial electronic devices. Serial communication allows for the transmission of data between many

MOCVD

Metal-Organic Chemical Vapour Deposition is a technique used for growing crystalline layers into multilayer structures. In this process, UHP gases are used to deposit a

Microbial fuel cell

A bio-electrochemical fuel cell that drives a current using bacteria and by mimicking bacterial processes and interactions that can be found naturally.

Methanation (methanisation)

The derivation of methane from digesting organic matter, in the absence of air or oxygen. Hydrogen can increase the conversion rate to methane from 60%

Meteorology or meteorological uses (Met)

Able to be used in weather-related systems or for meteorological purposes. Nel hydrogen gas generators are often used to fill weather balloons cheaply and effectively. Using other expensive

Metal injection molding

A form of metalworking that uses finely-powdered metal and a binding agent to precisely “inject” metal in order to create complex and precise metal-based products

Membrane technology

Compressed air is forced into a vessel containing a hollow tube in the middle surrounded by a polymeric hollow fiber. These hollow fibers selectively permeate O2,

Membrane

A barrier which allows specific elements or compounds to permeate, while other elements, compounds, or impurities, are separated or filtered. The barriers (membranes) in our

Material processing applications

Industrial operations that require various mechanical or chemical procedures, usually in large quantities or batches, during the manufacture of raw-materials into finished goods. These processes

Manufacturer

The original producer of a product, analytical instrument or piece of equipment, that our gas generators serve for laboratory applications.

Nitrogen purifier regeneration

Hydrogen is used as an agent to regenerate the catalysts used in nitrogen purifiers for semiconductor nitrogen process gas supply.

Nitrogen generator

Nitrogen generators are designed to utilize an existing air source and produce nitrogen on demand. Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere.

Nitrogen blanketing

Nitrogen can be used to purge heat treat furnaces and reflow solder baths which prevents oxidation of the metal surface and minimizes dross generation. Nitrogen

Natural gas reforming

Natural gas reforming includes various types of gas reformation techniques that produce hydrogen from existing natural gases. Hydrogen produced from this process is referred to

Natural gas grid

The storage and distribution system for natural gas.

On-stream time

The time that a unit is operating or producing a product.

Purity control

Hydrogen is used as a cooling atmosphere in power plants across the globe because during operation, currents flowing through electric power generators produce large amounts

Purifier regeneration

Purifier regeneration is the process of removing impurities from saturated media. This cleans purifiers so they can be used over again. This process is supported

Purge airflow system

Used to flush electrical equipment with clean air. Flushing occurs before the electrical device is started. This is done to ensure that any contaminants that

Pumped hydro (pumped-storage hydroelectricity)

A form of energy storage in which excess electricity is used to pump water uphill to a reservoir. When power is needed, the stored water

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis

PEM water electrolysis simply splits deionized water (H2O) into its constituent parts, hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2), on either side of a solid polymer electrolyte

Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) technology

PSA technology separates nitrogen molecules from the other gas molecules by the carbon molecular sieves (CMS). Alternating between both CMS columns, firstly O2, moisture, hydrocarbons,

Power-to-Power

Power-to-Power employs electrolysis technology to generate hydrogen from renewable resources such as wind and solar power. The hydrogen is then stored for future use and

Power-to-gas

A technology that converts electrical power to a gaseous fuel. In this process, excess power is utilized in order to generate hydrogen via electrolysis. The stored

Power plant

A facility that generates electrical power for distribution, usually on an industrial scale.

Powder processing

Powder processing is a term that refers to the industrial sintering, pressing compression, rolling, and/ or extrusion of powders.

Powder metallurgy

Powder metallurgy is a process in which materials or components are made from metal powders.

PLC (programmable logic controller)

A programmable computer, or program, used to automate electromechanical processes. PLC’s are often used to operate and control the automated machines in assembly lines.

Research grade

Reliable, safe, secure, consistent, and pure. Research grade hydrogen has an incredibly high purity level; does not contain any contaminants, unwanted compounds, or elements, that

Renewable energy

Energy collected from naturally produced, and regenerative resources. Some examples of renewable energy sources include: hydro, wind, tidal, geothermal, and solar.

Refining

An oil refinery or petroleum refinery is an industrial process plant where crude oil is processed and refined into more useful products such as petroleum

Reductive agent

An element or compound that transfers electrons to another chemical agent in a reaction.  Hydrogen is commonly used to provide a reductive atmosphere in material processing applications.

Supply and demand mismatch

When the inventory of a product surpasses, or does not meet, the consumers desire of a product. Solar energy often experiences periods of supply and

SMR (steam methane reforming)

The process through which methane, and high temperature steam, react under pressure to produce hydrogen. This reaction between methane and steam creates carbon dioxide, a

Semiconductor

A substance that has conductivity (resistance levels) greater than that of an insulator, but less than most conductors. Hydrogen gas is used in wet oxidation

Seed crystal

A crystal, or polycrystal (polycrystalline) material from which larger crystals of the same crystalline structure grow from. Typically, the seed crystal is a small scale crystal from

Sample evaporation

The temperature and pressure at which a sample becomes gaseous in composition.

Sample concentration

The purity or amount of a given component in a sample. Nel hydrogen gas generators have the ability produce hydrogen at a concentration of 99.999995% hydrogen. With

Tube trailers

Used to transport or store large quantities of pressurized gas, or liquid gas, in cylinders or other vessels. These cylinders are attached to a trailer.

Thermal spray

A technique used to coat an object or surface by melting a coating material and spraying it at a high velocity onto a surface. There are many thermal spraying

Ultra pure

Used to transport or store large quantities of pressurized gas, or liquid gas, in cylinders or other vessels. These cylinders are attached to a trailer.

Welding

Welding is a fabrication process that joins materials, usually metals or thermoplastics, by creating a fusion.

Water electrolysis

Water Electrolysis is the process of splitting water molecules (H2O) into oxygen (O2) and hydrogen gas (H2) with electric current passing through the water. Two of

Zero-inventory design

No required storage or build up. The unit only uses what is required at the given time. This eliminates the risk and need for storing

Zero-emission fuel

Emits no pollutants or waste product when burned or utilized. Hydrogen is a zero-emission fuel because it only produces heat and water when utilized in a fuel cell.

Zero air generator

Generators that produce air with low hydrocarbon contents in order to perform analysis. Zero air generators are designed to utilize existing air sources and produce on demand.