Transforming Anion Exchange Membranes in Water Electrolysis for Green Hydrogen Production

A new polymer-based anion exchange membrane improves performance and durability, which is essential for producing green hydrogen

A group of researchers has implemented polyphenylene-based anion exchange membranes (AEMs) poised to make hydrogen production more efficient and durable. Its robust hydrophobic design enables effective ion transport while resisting chemical degradation. This supports its potential for durable, high-efficiency use in AEM water electrolyzers, making it a promising component in sustainable hydrogen production applications​, which would advance the goal of a carbon-free energy future.

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The membrane demonstrated consistent performance during water electrolyzer testing, sustaining a constant current density of 1.0 A.cm–² for over 1,000 hours with minimal voltage change. According to Miyatake, “The durability shown here is an encouraging sign that our membrane can help reduce costs in hydrogen production.”

Further, the membrane’s OH ̅ conductivity reached 168.7 mS.cm-1 at 80 °C, surpassing the values mentioned in earlier research studies. This high conductivity is critical for achieving high current densities needed to make hydrogen production efficient. By combining durability with such high conductivity, the team believes this material design marks an important advance toward scalable and affordable hydrogen production.

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