Dual Active Bridge Converters for Electrolyzers

Abstract

The increasing global emphasis on renewable energy stems from the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy security, and promote sustainable development. Among various clean energy technologies, electrolysis has gained significant attention as an emission-free method for producing hydrogen, one of the most energy-dense fuels available. Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods that rely on the combustion of hydrocarbons and fossil fuels, electrolysis can be powered by RES, thereby enabling the production of green hydrogen.
Integrating hydrogen production systems with RES necessitates the use of PECs. However, designing PECs for electrolyzers presents unique challenges due to the distinct characteristics of electrolyzers, which are non-linear, low-voltage, and highcurrent DC loads. Their electrical behavior is influenced by both macro-level parameters such as temperature, pressure, and molar concentration, as well as micro-level electrochemical properties. Research examining electrolyzers from a power electronics perspective remains limited. In contrast, the DAB converter is a well-established and extensively studied DC/DC converter topology, widely used across diverse applications. Despite its popularity, little to no research has been conducted on its application in electrolysis. This thesis aims to bridge this gap by conducting application-oriented research on the design and operation of DAB converters for electrolyzer- based systems.....