HydroXpandHandbook

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Safety and handling

HXP-an · HXP-ca · updated 2026-09-30

Damage inspection, protecting the catalyst, controlling offcuts, making up KOH electrolyte and PPE, and checking before assembly.

Rules for inspecting and handling HXP-an and HXP-ca electrodes, and for making up the KOH electrolyte that goes into your cell. Consult the electrode operation note for assembly and operating conditions appropriate to your hardware.

  • HandlingWear gloves · handle by the edges
  • Pre-treatmentNo additional pre-treatment
  • Making up electrolyteGoggles · alkali-resistant gloves · apron
How to read this chapter

First timeRead the inspection criteria, then handling and pre-assembly checks. If you are making up electrolyte for the first time, read the KOH section first.

Done this beforeCheck for damage and debris on the assembly surfaces.

On this pageCheck damage before assembly

Check damage before assembly

Check for creases, tears, catalyst delamination, contamination and changes in edge thickness. If anything is wrong, send photographs before placing the electrode in a cell.

Protect the catalyst and sealing surfaces

  • Wear gloves and handle the edges. Do not rub or scratch the catalyst-bearing surface.
  • Keep the electrode flat. Do not roll or fold it.
  • Do not press the surface with metal tools.
  • Remove offcuts and dust from the assembly area. Debris trapped in a seal causes leaks.

Making up and handling the electrolyte (KOH)

  • Handle it according to the SDS and your laboratory procedures.
  • Use only KOH-compatible containers, tubing and fittings.
  • Label every container with its contents, concentration and date.
  • If it spills, contain it, clean it up by your institution's procedure and dispose of the waste as regulations require.
  • If it reaches skin or eyes, rinse with water at once and seek medical attention if needed.
  • Keep an eyewash station and a safety shower close to where KOH is handled.
TaskWear
Inspecting and handling electrodesGloves
Making up and handling electrolyteSplash-proof goggles or a face shield, alkali-resistant gloves, and a chemical apron or lab coat

Use conditions for your own hardware

Do not apply stack press or tightening conditions directly to a test cell. Confirm assembly conditions for the gasket and cell construction.

Electrodes ship cleaned and dried. No additional pre-treatment or separate activation procedure is required.

What this chapter is based on

Resource library →

TroubleshootingDamage on arrival, a leaking cell, numbers that differ from the datasheet: what to check first, and what to send us.

Ask the engineer who built it

If your case is not covered here, send us the operating condition and what you observed. The engineer who designed the system answers directly.