Typically, water is the source for the electrochemical production of hydrogen, using alkaline or proton exchange membrane electrolysis. However, there are limitations with water electrolysis such as high-energy consumption, high capital costs, and high purity of the source (water). To circumvent these problems, the Center for Electrochemical Engineering Research (CEER) at Ohio University has been working in the development of novel, simple, suitable, and environmentally friendly electrochemical technologies to produce hydrogen from nonconventional sources such as urea. The electrolysis of urea for hydrogen production takes place in alkaline media. In the process, the electrochemical oxidation of urea to nitrogen and carbon dioxide takes place at the anode of the electrolytic cell in nickel-based electrodes, while hydrogen evolves at the cathodic compartment [1,2]. The process, with a theoretical cell voltage of 0.37 V at standard conditions, is thermodynamically more favorable than water electrolysis. Because of its low energy consumption and the use of inexpensive catalysts, the technology finds applications for the production of hydrogen on demand requiring only the storage of urea. In addition to direct production of hydrogen on demand, urea-rich wastewaters can be remediated via urea electrolysis to prevent toxic ammonia emissions and nitrate contamination that currently results from leaving these waters untreated. In this talk, Dr. Botte will present a summary of the technology including catalysts, oxidation rates, and progress on understanding of the reaction mechanism. [1] G. G. Botte. Electrolytic Cells and Methods for the Production of Ammonia and Hydrogen. US Patent 8,303,781 2012. [2] B. K. Boggs, R. L. King, G. G. Botte. Urea Electrolysis: Direct Hydrogen Production from Urine. Chem. Commun. 2009; 32: 4859-4861.

Electrolysis of urea for the sustainable production of hydrogen

249th National Meeting (2015)

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