Progress in thermochemical hydrogen production with the copper–chlorine cycle

Recent advances are reported by an international team on research and development of the copper chlorine (Cu–Cl) cycle for thermochemical hydrogen production. New experimental and numerical results are given for several processes of the cycle. Experimental results for CuCl/HCl electrolysis and integration of unit operations in the Cu–Cl cycle are presented. A new solubility model for the CuCl–CuCl2–HCl–H2O quaternary system is presented, which optimizes the cupric chloride selective precipitation prior to the hydrolysis reactor. Also, recent progress on photo-electrochemical cell development for enhancement of the electrolysis process is reported along with its integration with a concentrated solar radiation system

Progress of international program on hydrogen production with the copper–chlorine cycle

This paper highlights and discusses the recent advances in thermochemical hydrogen production with the copper–chlorine (Cu–Cl) cycle. Extended operation of HCl/CuCl electrolysis is achieved, and its performance assessment is conducted. Advances in the development of improved electrodes are presented for various electrode materials. Experimental studies for a 300 cm2 electrolytic cell show a stable current density and production at 98% of the theoretical hydrogen production rate. Long term testing of the electrolyzer for over 1600 h also shows a stable cell voltage. Different systems to address integration challenges are also examined for the integration of electrolysis/hydrolysis and thermolysis/electrolysis processes. New results from experiments for CuCl–HCl–H2O and CuCl2–HCl–H2O ternary systems are presented along with solubility data for CuCl in HCl–H2O mixtures between 298 and 363 K. A parametric study of multi-generation energy systems incorporating the Cu–Cl cycle is presented with an overall energy efficiency as high as 57% and exergy efficiency of hydrogen production up to 90%

Progress of international hydrogen production network for the thermochemical Cu–Cl cycle

This paper presents recent advances by an international team which is developing the thermochemical copper–chlorine (Cu–Cl) cycle for hydrogen production. Development of the Cu–Cl cycle has been pursued by several countries within the framework of the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) for hydrogen production with the next generation of nuclear reactors. Due to its lower temperature requirements in comparison with other thermochemical cycles, the Cu–Cl cycle is particularly well matched with Canada's Generation IV reactor, SCWR (Super-Critical Water Reactor), as well as other heat sources such as solar energy or industrial waste heat. In this paper, recent developments of the Cu–Cl cycle are presented, specifically involving unit operation experiments, corrosion resistant materials and system integration

SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in Malaysia: displacement of B.1.617.2 with AY lineages as the dominant Delta variants and the introduction of Omicron during the fourth epidemic wave

Objectives This study reported SARS-CoV-2 whole genome sequencing results from June 2021 to January 2022 from seven genome sequencing centers in Malaysia as part of the national surveillance program. Methods COVID-19 samples that tested positive by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and with cycle threshold values <30 were obtained throughout Malaysia. Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 complete genomes was performed using Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, or Ion Torrent platforms. A total of 6163 SARS-CoV-2 complete genome sequences were generated over the surveillance period. All sequences were submitted to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data database. Results From June 2021 to January 2022, Malaysia experienced the fourth wave of COVID-19 dominated by the Delta variant of concern, including the original B.1.617.2 lineage and descendant AY lineages. The B.1.617.2 lineage was identified as the early dominant circulating strain throughout the country but over time, was displaced by AY.59 and AY.79 lineages in Peninsular (west) Malaysia, and the AY.23 lineage in east Malaysia. In December 2021, pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia facilitated the introduction and spread of the BA.1 lineage (Omicron variant of concern) in the country. Conclusion The changing trends of circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages were identified, with differences observed between west and east Malaysia. This initiative highlighted the importance of leveraging research expertise in the country to facilitate pandemic response and preparedness

SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in Malaysia: displacement of B.1.617.2 with AY lineages as the dominant Delta variants and the introduction of Omicron during the fourth epidemic wave

Objectives: This study reported SARS-CoV-2 whole genome sequencing results from June 2021 to January 2022 from seven genome sequencing centers in Malaysia as part of the national surveillance program. Methods: COVID-19 samples that tested positive by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and with cycle threshold values <30 were obtained throughout Malaysia. Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 complete genomes was performed using Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, or Ion Torrent platforms. A total of 6163 SARS-CoV-2 complete genome sequences were generated over the surveillance period. All sequences were submitted to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data database. Results: From June 2021 to January 2022, Malaysia experienced the fourth wave of COVID-19 dominated by the Delta variant of concern, including the original B.1.617.2 lineage and descendant AY lineages. The B.1.617.2 lineage was identified as the early dominant circulating strain throughout the country but over time, was displaced by AY.59 and AY.79 lineages in Peninsular (west) Malaysia, and the AY.23 lineage in east Malaysia. In December 2021, pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia facilitated the introduction and spread of the BA.1 lineage (Omicron variant of concern) in the country. Conclusion: The changing trends of circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages were identified, with differences observed between west and east Malaysia. This initiative highlighted the importance of leveraging research expertise in the country to facilitate pandemic response and preparedness