0.5mm 0.6mm 0.8mm Thread 2.8x5mm Diamond Hole Expanded Nickel Mesh for Hydrogen Generation

Nickel Expanded Metal is made by expanding pure nickel foil by precision expanding technique. The Mini nickel expanded metal fits best for battery and fuel cell electrodes and current collector, for example nickel-compartment/Ni-Hi/Li-ion battery electrode.
Nickel Expanded Metal is symmetrically slit and stretched to produce diamond shape openings. This type of nickel mesh has avoided the electricity flow problem that occurs in mesh made of woven wires.
We take the special measures to produce the nickel expanded metal mesh with smooth surface.
Common Nickel Expanded Metal Specification Range:
Opening size(LWD): 0.2mm to 20mm
Thickness: 0.1mm to 5mm
Sheet size: customized sizes available

Characteristics for Hydrogen Generation

1. High Surface Area
   • The diamond hole structure provides a large open area and surface area, enhancing contact with reactants (e.g., water, electrolytes) in hydrogen production systems (e.g., electrolyzers).
2. Corrosion Resistance
   • Nickel’s inherent resistance to corrosion from acidic/alkaline electrolytes (e.g., KOH, H₂SO₄) ensures long-term stability in hydrogen generation environments.
3. Electrical Conductivity
   • Nickel’s good electrical conductivity is critical for efficient electron transfer in electrolysis processes.
4. Mechanical Strength
   • The expanded mesh structure offers rigidity and durability, withstandings mechanical stresses in industrial setups.
5. Customizable Porosity
   • Varying thread diameters (0.5–0.8mm) and hole sizes (2.8x5mm) allow adjustment of porosity and flow permeability for optimized gas evolution (H₂/O₂).

Typical Applications in Hydrogen Generation

1. Water Electrolysis
   • As an electrode substrate or flow distributor in alkaline electrolyzers, proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, or solid oxide electrolyzers (SOEs).
2. Catalyst Support
   • Can be coated with catalysts (e.g., platinum, iridium, nickel-based catalysts) to enhance the efficiency of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
3. Gas Diffusion Layers (GDLs)
   • In PEM fuel cells or electrolyzers, the mesh facilitates uniform gas distribution and prevents liquid accumulation.
4. Heat and Mass Transfer
   • The open diamond structure promotes efficient heat dissipation and reactant flow, critical for maintaining optimal operating temperatures.

Advantages Over Other Materials

• Cost-Effective: Nickel is more economical than precious metals (e.g., platinum) while offering comparable corrosion resistance in many electrolytic environments.
• Versatility: Suitable for both low-temperature (alkaline/PEM) and high-temperature (SOE) electrolysis systems, depending on the alloy grade.
• Scalability: Expanded mesh can be produced in large sheets, ideal for industrial-scale hydrogen production facilities.

Technical Considerations

• Alloy Selection: For extreme temperatures or corrosive conditions, nickel alloys (e.g., Inconel 625) may be preferred over pure nickel for enhanced oxidation/corrosion resistance.
• Surface Treatment: Electroplating or chemical activation of the mesh surface can improve catalyst adhesion and HER activity.
• Flow Orientation: The diamond hole’s aspect ratio (2.8x5mm) may influence fluid flow direction, requiring proper orientation in electrolyzer design.