Recently, a novel CO₂ electrolysis cell has been developed in the laboratory in which pure water can be used instead of an alkali metal or iron-based electrolyte. While the cell offers several distinct advantages, it has been found to be highly susceptible to variations in temperature and humidity.

The student will investigate the effects of humidity and temperature on the wick-flow electrolysis cell. The catalyst system will consist of bismuth-based particles. In addition, the student is expected to develop a simple model of the cell that accounts for the influence of humidity, temperature, and current on product formation, with the primary product of interest being formate/formic acid.

(Experimental + Modelling)