Discrete-time online optimization of a microbial electrolysis cell for maximizing hydrogen production

The production of hydrogen by microbial electrolysis cell from organic matter is a very promising new technology with a better performance and a lower generation of greenhouse gases compared to other biological processes such as dark fermentation and with lower required energy compared to the classical water electrolysis. In this paper, the optimization of a microbial electrolysis cell to maximize the hydrogen production rate is presented. The maximum productivity is computed using the golden section search algorithm. The optimum flow rate is then online computed by a discrete-time super-twisting controller. The feasibility of the optimization method is demonstrated by numerical simulations.

Automated summary

The production of hydrogen from organic matter using microbial electrolysis cells is a promising technology with better performance and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to other biological processes. This paper presents an optimization method using the golden section search algorithm and a discrete-time super-twisting controller to maximize hydrogen production. Numerical simulations demonstrate the feasibility of this optimization method.