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From scientific laboratories to industrial applications: What impact will the breakthrough in AEM electrolysis technology have?
As the world pursues renewable energy, the application of hydrogen energy has received increasing attention. In the process of hydrogen energy generation, AEM (anion exchange membrane) electrolysis technology has attracted widespread attention from the scientific and industrial communities. AEM electrolysis technology, with its unique reaction mode and relatively low cost, expands its potential application scenarios to more common industrial applications.
The core of AEM electrolysis technology is the anion exchange membrane, which can conduct hydroxide ions (OH−) and effectively isolate the products between the electrodes, providing electrical insulation. Unlike conventional proton exchange membranes (PEMs), AEMs can use low-cost transition metal catalysts instead of relying on expensive precious metal catalysts such as platinum or germanium.
AEM electrolysis technology not only reduces production costs, but also provides superior electrolysis efficiency.
Advantages and Challenges
AdvantagesA prominent advantage of AEM electrolysis technology is that it combines the strengths of alkaline water electrolysis and proton exchange membrane electrolysis. In an alkaline environment, the use of non-precious metal catalysts such as Ni and Fe can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, AEM electrolysis technology operates in relatively pure water or slightly alkaline solutions, which reduces the risk of leaks. In addition, research reports have pointed out that in the absence of precious metal catalysts, the operating voltage of the AEM electrolysis system is significantly lower than that of other electrolysis technologies, which improves its feasibility for industrial application.
In addition, the AEM is designed to maintain a hydrogen crossover excess of less than 0.4% during operation. This means it tends to be safer, reducing the risk of explosions caused by accidental gas mixing.
Compared to traditional proton exchange membranes, the production process of AEM is environmentally friendly, less expensive and does not require the use of toxic chemicals.
Challenges
Although AEM electrolysis technology has shown good development potential, it still faces many challenges. Currently, AEM is still in the research and development stage, and compared with the mature alkaline water electrolysis technology, the literature is relatively scarce. In consumer-grade AEM electrolysis equipment, the durability of the membrane is particularly prominent. The life of many devices is difficult to exceed 2,000 hours, while the service life of PEM is as long as 20,000 to 80,000 hours.
Since the durability of AEM membranes above 60°C is poor, developing membranes that can operate in high pH environments and high and medium temperatures is one of the focuses of future research. How to improve ionic conductivity and membrane durability will be an important key to the large-scale application of AEM.
Scientific Principles
The core reactions of AEM technology include the generation of oxygen and hydrogen, which need to be built on an effective catalyst basis. The process of oxygen generation reaction is relatively complex and requires the participation of multiple hydroxide ions and electrons. Therefore, due to the many reaction steps and high energy barriers, the overall efficiency is limited.
Improving the efficiency of catalysts will be an important aspect in improving the electrolysis performance of AEM in the future.
Membrane Electrode Assembly
The design of the membrane electrode assembly is crucial to the effectiveness of AEM electrolysis. These components typically consist of anode and cathode catalyst layers with a membrane layer in between. The design of the catalyst layer and the selection of materials play a key role in improving electrolysis efficiency. Common materials include nickel and titanium, which provide stable support for the catalyst.
Conclusion
Overall, AEM electrolysis technology provides significant advantages in reducing costs, improving efficiency, and safety. However, it still faces challenges in durability and technological maturity. If these obstacles can be overcome, AEM technology will have greater potential in the production and application of hydrogen energy. In the future, can AEM electrolysis technology be widely used in various industrial scenarios and can it contribute to the global renewable energy transformation?
