PolyMEA – Fluorine-free membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for AEM water electrolysis

Water electrolysis for the production of hydrogen is clearly emerging as a key technology for the development of a sustainable and flexible energy system. In the PolyMEA project, based on the results of the ‘AEM-BPQ’ project (21055 BG), the performance and durability of the components of alkaline membrane water electrolysis (AEMEL) are being further improved through the development of:

  • fluorine-free AEM (membranes) with higher conductivity and higher stability
  • AEM and catalyst-compatible ionomer dispersions based on quaternised fluorine-free PPQ polymers, which are used as ion-conductive binders for the catalyst layers
  • Catalyst-ionomer dispersions with regard to their applicability in the coating process and their performance
  • MEAs by integrating the novel AEMs and ionomers with non-precious metal catalysts
  • Development of operating conditions to increase the performance and durability of the newly developed MEAs by adaptively varying the operating parameters

Overall, PolyMEA aims to significantly advance the precious metal- and fluorine-free AEMEL technology by improving the electrochemical components, layers and MEAs in terms of performance, cost and durability.

The synthesis of monomers and polymers as well as the production of catalyst dispersions are of great interest to medium-sized companies, as they can expand their existing product portfolio through contract synthesis and the production of fine formulations. In addition, there are several SMEs in Germany with extensive expertise in the manufacture of membranes, CCMs and MEAs. Companies that manufacture stacks, assemblies and system components for electrolysers also benefit. Ultimately, all players in the future hydrogen economy, which should be based on environmentally friendly (fluorine-free) and resource-saving (precious metal-free) electrolysis, will benefit.

 

Duration:

01.04.2024 to 30.09.2026

Research centres:

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP
ZBT – The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center

Funding information:

The research project of the Environmental Technology Research Association is/was funded by the AiF as part of the programme for the promotion of industrial joint research and development (IGF) by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag.

Source:
https://www.iuta.de/igf/igf-forschungsprojekte/aif-nummer/23149/

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