Gas diffusion electrode, an electrolysis system, and a method for operating an electrolysis system

A gas diffusion electrode comprising:

• at least two layers of which a first layer comprises an electrically conductive woven fabric which is at least partially embedded in a hydrophobic polymer matrix and a second layer that is directly applied to the first layer, that comprises an open porosity in which catalytically active particles are present, that comprises a hydrophilic anion exchange monomer, and which has a thickness in the range from 1 μm to 50 μm;
• wherein the catalytically active particles of the second layer have a diameter which is in the range from 0.05 μm to 1 μm;
• wherein a first side of the electrically conductive woven fabric is configured to establish electrical communication with a contact web disposed adjacent the first layer;
• wherein a second side of the electrically conductive woven fabric establishes electrically conductive contact points with the second layer;
• wherein the electrically conductive woven fabric comprises a middle region that connects the first side to the second side, and wherein the middle region is electrically insulated in a manner effective to prevent direct electrical communication between the middle region and fluid in the first layer;
• and
• wherein the middle region is coated by a coating comprising material that is different than a material of the hydrophobic polymer matrix.