Design and fabrication of solar powered alkaline electrolyser

The production of hydrogen through electrolysis is a key component in the transition to sustainable energy sources. Current industrial hydrogen production methods rely heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to environmental degradation. This project focuses on designing and fabricating a smart solar-powered alkaline electrolyser to produce hydrogen using renewable solar energy. The primary objective is to create an efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly system to address the increasing demand for clean hydrogen production. The project involves the design of the electrolyser using SolidWorks 2021, focusing on optimizing the arrangement and materials of the electrodes to enhance efficiency. Stainless steel electrodes with a surface area of 15 cm² each are used, spaced 14 cm apart within a 10-plate configuration. The system is powered by a 12V power supply, regulated through a solar panel with 19% efficiency and 30W output. The fabrication process includes lathe operations for cylindrical components, precise drilling for component alignment, and soldering for secure electrical connections. Safety measures are integrated into the design to mitigate risks associated with high electrical currents. The prototype successfully demonstrated the feasibility of integrating solar power with alkaline electrolysis for hydrogen production. The system operated effectively within the set parameters, utilizing solar energy to drive the electrolysis process. The hydrogen production rate was found to be efficient, with the system maintaining operational stability and safety throughout the testing phase. The use of renewable energy significantly reduced the operational costs and environmental impact compared to conventional hydrogen production methods. The results indicate that the smart solar- powered alkaline electrolyser is a viable solution for sustainable hydrogen production. The integration of solar energy not only makes the process greener but also reduces dependence on fossil fuels. However, further optimization is needed to enhance the overall efficiency and scalability of the system for industrial applications. Future work will focus on improving the design and exploring advanced materials for electrodes to increase the durability and performance of the electrolyser. The project underscores the potential of renewable energy in transforming hydrogen production, contributing to global efforts in reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development