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Hydrogen Testing Challenges and Validation Solutions

Hydrogen is becoming a key solution for the global energy transition. However, to enable large-scale deployment, hydrogen technologies must meet strict requirements in terms of performance, durability and safety. Testing solutions play a fundamental role in this process by validating every component and system before integration into critical applications such as mobility, energy and industry.

List of Test Benches Developed by Gemesis

  • MEA membrane permeation testing (Fuel cells and electrolyzers): to evaluate membrane performance and durability in hydrogen systems
  • Membrane and bipolar plate leak testing: to ensure the integrity and safety of components in fuel cells and electrolyzers.
  • Electrical testing of bipolar plates: verification of electrical performance to optimize current transfer and minimize energy losses.
  • Leak testing of complete hydrogen systems: including fuel cells, electrolyzers, and complex hydrogen systems.
  • Functional and characterization testing of hydrogen valves, fittings, and components: to verify functionality, resistance, and performance under high-pressure conditions.
  • Injector test bench: for the validation and characterization of hydrogen injectors under real operating conditions.
  • High-pressure test bench up to 1000 bar: for refueling stations, filling receptacles, and other components exposed to extreme conditions, in compliance with the SAE J2799 protocol.
  • HIL test benches for cryogenic tanks and CVM (Cell Voltage Monitoring): enabling control of cryogenic tank systems, fuel cells, and electrolyzers, as well as monitoring the voltage of each cell.
  • Humidifier characterization and calibration test bench: essential for ensuring optimal humidification of hydrogen systems.
  • Electrical power balancing test benches: to optimize power distribution and management in hydrogen systems, ensuring stable and efficient performance.
  • Multistack test bench: designed to test multiple fuel cell stacks simultaneously for larger-scale validation.
  • Single-cell, cell, and short-stack test benches: for small-scale fuel cell testing before integration into more complex systems.
  • Activation improvement test bench (electrochemical break-in): to improve cell efficiency through a controlled electrochemical activation process.
  • Cathode, anode, and cooling loop test benches: for validating the performance of flow and cooling circuits in fuel cells.
  • Custom leak-testing cases: specifically designed for the unique requirements of each project or client to ensure testing adapted to specific constraints.
  • Component testing under altitude conditions: through our Sk2lab service, to verify the performance and reliability of hydrogen systems in low-pressure environments.
  • Integration of impedance spectroscopy: into our test benches to analyze the performance of fuel cells, batteries, and electrolyzers.

Test Bench Automation and Control via the Open Source GEMS Platform

To maximize the efficiency and accuracy of our testing, all our test benches are operated through our open-source GEMS platform. This software solution enables real-time control of tests, simplified data management, and automation of testing processes. The GEMS platform provides increased flexibility, facilitating the integration of new testing protocols and allowing rapid adjustments according to customer requirements.

By choosing an open-source platform, we ensure complete transparency and interoperability with other systems. It also enables our customers to customize and adapt the platform to their own specific needs, ensuring a sustainable and scalable solution.