AEM Electrolyzer Technology
Anion Exchange Membrane Electrolyzer: Revolutionizing Hydrogen Production
The Anion Exchange Membrane Electrolyser (AEM) stack lies at the heart of our innovative technology. It harnesses the power of electrochemistry to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases, offering a clean and renewable solution for hydrogen production.
The AEM stack consists of multiple layers, each playing a crucial role in the electrolysis process. At its core is the anion exchange membrane, a specialized material that allows the selective transport of anions while blocking cations. This unique property makes it ideal for facilitating the movement of hydroxyl ions (OH-) across the membrane.
Reactions In Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) Electrolyzers
Reactions that occur in an Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyzer, where hydroxyl (OH-) anions travel from the cathode side to the anode side, and hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are produced.
Anion Migration:
In the AEM electrolyzer, hydroxyl (OH-) anions migrate from the cathode side to the anode side through the anion exchange membrane. This membrane selectively allows the transport of anions while blocking cations.
Hydrogen Production: At the cathode (negative electrode), hydrogen ions (H+) are reduced by gaining electrons from the electrical current, forming hydrogen gas (H2).
Oxygen Evolution Reaction:
At the anode side of the AEM electrolyzer, the hydroxyl (OH-) anions undergo catalytic reactions to produce oxygen gas (O2). These reactions involve the oxidation of the OH- anions and the release of electrons.
The overall reaction at the anode can be represented as follows:
4OH- (aq) -> O2 (g) + 2H2O (l) + 4e-
​Essentially, four hydroxyl anions are oxidized, resulting in the production of one molecule of oxygen gas, two molecules of water, and the release of four electrons.
Hydrogen Evolution Reaction:
​At the cathode side of the AEM electrolyzer, hydrogen gas (H2) is generated through the reduction of protons (H+). This reduction reaction involves the combination of protons and electrons to form hydrogen gas.
The overall reaction at the cathode can be represented as follows:
2H+ (aq) + 2e- -> H2 (g)
In this reaction, two protons and two electrons combine to produce one molecule of hydrogen gas.
Together, these reactions demonstrate the fundamental electrochemical processes that occur within an AEM electrolyzer. Hydroxyl anions migrate from the cathode side to the anode side through the anion exchange membrane. At the anode, these anions undergo catalytic reactions to produce oxygen gas, while at the cathode, protons combine with electrons to generate hydrogen gas.
These electrochemical reactions are at the core of hydrogen production in an AEM electrolyzer and highlight the importance of catalysts and co-catalysts in facilitating these reactions efficiently. Through continuous research and development, our company, HYDgen Innovation, aims to optimize these reactions and drive advancements in sustainable and clean hydrogen generation.
HYDGEN Key R&D Focus Areas
In-House Membrane Development
Our dedicated team is continuously working on developing advanced membranes to enhance the efficiency and durability of our electrolyzers.
Catalyst Development
We are focused on creating high-performance catalysts that improve reaction rates and overall system performance.
Coating Optimization
Our research includes optimizing coating techniques to ensure better performance and longevity of the electrolyzer components
Advantages of HYDGEN's Anion Exchange Membrane Electrolyser Technology
1 . Enhanced Efficiency: The selective transport properties of the anion exchange membrane enable faster and more efficient ion migration, resulting in improved overall system efficiency.
2. Durability and Longevity: Our AEM stacks are designed for long-term durability, ensuring extended operational lifetimes and reduced maintenance requirements.
3. Environmentally Friendly: By utilizing water as the feedstock and producing only oxygen gas as a byproduct, our technology offers a clean and environmentally friendly method for hydrogen generation, contributing to a sustainable future.
4. Highly scalable: The modular design of the AEM stack allows for easy scalability, catering to diverse hydrogen production needs, from small-scale applications to large industrial installations.