This article presents the design and implementation of a DC–DC power converter for application in electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging systems. The prototype is of the resonant LLC type and consists of a high-power transformer operating at high frequency, which is an essential feature for the adequate behavior of the EV fast-charging system as a whole. As demonstrated throughout the article, by using this converter topology as well as its specific operating modes, such as for achieving zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and zero-current switching (ZCS), it is possible to enhance efficiency by reducing conduction and switching losses as well as to increase power density. The details of the high-power high-frequency transformer (HFT), considering different designs, are presented and discussed. With the implemented laboratorial prototype fully developed with silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductor devices, it was possible to demonstrate and validate the main features of the resonant LLC converter, including high efficiency, under distinct conditions of operation.

Hydrogen has been receiving a lot of attention in the last few years since it is seen as a viable, yet not thoroughly dissected alternative for addressing climate change issues, namely in terms of energy storage, and therefore, great investments have been made towards research and development in this area. In this context, a study about the main options for hydrogen production, along with the analysis of a variety of the main power electronics converter topologies for such applications, is presented as the purpose of this paper. Much of the analyzed available literature only discusses a few types of hydrogen production methods, so it becomes crucial to include an analysis of all known types of methods for producing hydrogen, according to their production type, along with the color code associated with each type, and highlighting the respective contextualization, as well as advantages and disadvantages. Regarding the topologies of power electronics converters most suitable for hydrogen production, and more specifically, for green hydrogen production, a list of them was analyzed through the available literature, and a discussion of their advantages and disadvantages is presented. These topologies present the advantage of having a low ripple current output, which is a requirement for the production of hydrogen.