MAS534 Electrochemistry for Batteries, Electrolyzers and Fuel Cell Systems

Contents and structure

This course will give students a good overview of electrochemistry, batteries, electrolyzers and fuel cell systems. It will cover both knowledge of components, design and operation of these systems.

This course is made to support the UN sustainability goals 4,7,9,11-15. The course emphasizes technology that may provide energy production with a minimal negative impact on climate. 

Lab exercises comprise design and fabrication of batteries in the laboratory, and fuel cell and electrolyzer operation.

Contents:

• Electrochemical theory about batteries and fuel cells
• Fundamental electrical double layer theory
• Introduction to infrastructures for battery and fuel cells characterization
• Anode materials
• Cathode materials
• Electrolyte materials
• State-of-the-art battery technology, and battery fabrication
• State-of-the-art for electrolyzer and fuel cell technology, and fuel cells fabrication

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

The student…

• has knowledge about general electrochemistry.
• has knowledge about the electrochemical working principle of batteries during charge and discharge.
• has knowledge about cyclic voltammetry, open circuit voltage, C rate, specific energy capacity, energy density.
• can describe the individual components of fuel cells/electrolyzers, their function, design, and limitations.
• can explain thermodynamics and thermodynamic limitations of fuel cells and electrolyzer systems.

 

Skills

The student…

• can design and prepare anode, cathode, and electrolyte.
• can design batteries and fabrication in the laboratory.
• can operate fuel cells in the laboratory.
• can write reports on battery and fuel cell fabrication.
• can independently analyze battery and fuel cell systems.

General competency

The student…

• has the ability to work in teams.
• has the ability to reflect on own capabilities within the subject.
• has practical labwork experience in battery and fuel cell technology.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

Thermodynamics, chemistry or hydrogen technology

Teaching methods

Lectures, laboratory exercises, written exercises, project work in group, self-study.

Compulsory learning activities

In order to take a written exam, 2 laboratory exercises (with written reports) and 2 written exercises, must be approved.

Assessment

1. Written exam, 4 hours. Written exam counts 60 % of the final grade.
2. Project report counts 20 % of the final grade. 
3. Project report counts 20 % of the final grade. 

Grade scale A-F, where F corresponds to fail.

Both the exam and the reports have to be passed in order to get a passing grade.

Examination support material

A type-approved calculator 

More about examination support material

Course reductions

• KJE205 - Batteriteknologi - Reduction: 5 studypoints