Pulse Power Electrolysis for Efficient Hydrogen Production from Industrial Wastewater Streams

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable hydrogen production and efficient industrial wastewater management has accelerated interest in integrated electrochemical resource recovery technologies. This study investigates pulse power electrolysis for efficient hydrogen production from industrial wastewater streams under varying operational conditions. The proposed approach combines pulsed electrical energy input with electrolysis processes to enhance hydrogen evolution efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and simultaneously support wastewater treatment through electrochemical oxidation mechanisms. A comprehensive experimental and analytical investigation was conducted to evaluate the influence of pulse frequency, duty cycle, current density, electrode material, wastewater composition, electrolyte conductivity, and operating temperature on hydrogen generation performance and contaminant removal efficiency. The pulse power electrolysis system was designed to improve electron transfer kinetics, minimize electrode polarization, and enhance gas bubble detachment during hydrogen evolution reactions. Performance evaluation demonstrated significant improvements in hydrogen production rate, energy utilization efficiency, and electrochemical stability compared to conventional direct current electrolysis systems. The integrated process also exhibited effective degradation of organic pollutants and reduction of chemical oxygen demand within industrial wastewater streams. Comparative analysis revealed that optimized pulse power operation substantially reduces electrical energy demand while enhancing hydrogen yield and wastewater remediation capability. Furthermore, advanced electrode configurations contributed to improved operational durability, reduced fouling tendency, and stable long-term electrochemical performance.