Anion exchange membrane (AEM) technology uses a semipermeable membrane to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. It's considered a promising technology for hydrogen production because it’s more sustainable and cost-effective compared to conventional electrolysis processes. The technology also enables high current densities and good efficiency.
Specialty chemicals maker Evonik said Feb. 25 it’s building a pilot plant in Marl, Germany, to produce its Duraion-brand anion exchange membrane (AEM) technology.
The membranes are a central element in AEM water electrolysis and are designed to support the production of green hydrogen. The company said it’s investing a low double-digit million-euro amount in the AEM plant, which is scheduled to go online at the end of 2025.
Evonik’s reinforced polymer membrane allows anions to pass through but is impermeable to the gases produced in the electrolysis, such as hydrogen, and can withstand high pressure and high temperatures.
The membranes produced at the AEM plant will be suitable for use in commercial electrolyzer systems, the company said in a press statement. Once fully online, the plant will be able to produce enough membranes each year to provide 2.5 GW of electrolysis capacity for hydrogen production. In addition, the plant will be able to produce reinforced membranes, directly addressing growing interest in this new technology.
In the last 12 months, Evonik said it has steadily increased the production capacity of the intermediate products used in the membranes. The construction of the plant in Marl capitalizes on this higher capacity and is the next step for the company in the planned expansion of its membrane business.
About the Author
Amanda Joshi | Managing Editor
Amanda Joshi has more than 18 years of experience in business-to-business publishing for both print and digital content. Before joining Chemical Processing, she worked with Manufacturing.net and Electrical Contracting Products. She’s a versatile, award-winning editor with experience in writing and editing technical content, executing marketing strategy, developing new products, attending industry events and developing customer relationships.
Amanda graduated from Northern Illinois University in 2001 with a B.A. in English and has been an English teacher. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and daughter, and their mini Aussiedoodle, Riley. In her rare spare time, she enjoys reading, tackling DIY projects, and horseback riding.
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