Alkaline stable membranes for alkaline electrolyzers

C56-18m-272073Anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzers have the potential to meet the 2026 DOE target of hydrogen production for $2/kg, but better membranes are needed. The membranes need to run at higher pressures and lower KOH concentrations to simplify the balance of plant. Dioxide Materials already sells alkaline exchange membranes for use in AEM electrolyzers, but the present membranes are not suited to high-pressure operation or low concentrations of potassium hydroxide (KOH). In the proposed work, Dioxide Materials’ staff will create new membranes that work at higher pressures and lower KOH concentrations. The new membranes will be tested in a Dioxide Materials’ 5 cm2 AEM electrolyzer. The testing will provide information about the performance of the new membrane and inform further design and development efforts. In Phase I work, Dioxide Materials’ staff will modify the structure of the existing membranes to improve conductivity. We will also test novel supports to enhance the strength of the membranes. Upon success, Dioxide Materials will be synthesizing and selling anion exchange membranes designed for AEM electrolysis at high pressure and low KOH concentration, creating new jobs and revenues for U.S. manufacturers.