Optimal operating conditions evaluation of an anion-exchange-membrane electrolyzer based on FUMASEP? FAA3-50 membrane

Hydrogen production via water electrolysis is considered the greenest way because it does not produce any direct carbon emissions when powered by renewable sources. Among the different technologies of electrolyzers, increasing interest is registered by that one based on anion-exchange membranes (AEMs). In this work, a FAA3-5 0 anion -exchange membrane (from FuMa-Tech) is used, after the KOH solution (1 M) exchange, as electrolyte/separator in an electrolysis cell of 5 cm2 geometrical area. Commercial IrO2 and 40% Pt/C catalysts are used at the anode and cathode, respectively, to eval-uate the membrane under the most convenient conditions. The influence of cell temperature, membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) procedure (catalyst-coated mem-brane or catalyst coated electrode), and pure water or KOH solution on electrolyzer performance are analyzed. It appears that the catalyst-coated membrane approach, using the FAA3-5 0 membrane, allows higher temperature operation. However, diluted KOH solution is necessary to increase the membrane conductivity and the cell performance.(c) 2022 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Water electrolysis for hydrogen production is an environmentally friendly method, especially when powered by renewable energy sources. The use of anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) in electrolyzer technology has attracted growing interest. In this study, a FAA3-5 0 anion-exchange membrane is tested as the electrolyte/separator in a 5 cm2 electrolysis cell, with IrO2 and Pt/C catalysts at the anode and cathode, respectively. The effects of cell temperature, membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) procedure, and electrolyte choice on performance are analyzed, with the catalyst-coated membrane approach and diluted KOH solution showing potential for improved operation.