Miriam Hesse, Elektrolyseteststand

AEM Water Electrolysis

Anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEM-WE) combines the advantages of alkaline electrolysis with those of polymer membrane technology. It enables cost-efficient hydrogen production through the use of precious metal-free catalysts. At the same time, proven manufacturing and design principles from PEM technologies can be utilised.

We cover the entire value chain – from the development and synthesis of precious metal-free catalysts to the manufacture and processing of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) to system integration and long-term testing. In addition to material development, we optimise production processes and support scaling from the laboratory phase to large-scale implementation.

Research and applied development for industrial applications

Our focus is on the manufacture and characterisation of new precious metal-free catalysts and the development of innovative MEA manufacturing processes. Various coating techniques are used, such as spray processes and large-area doctor blade and slot die coating processes.

 

In tests, we use measuring cells with specially adapted flow fields. Our measuring equipment enables the characterisation of single cells with active areas of 5 to 25 cm² in long-term tests under real operating conditions, including up to 8 bar for AEM water electrolysis. We also offer electrochemical characterisation, µXRF mapping and layer thickness analyses for the investigation of catalyst layers.

Development

We develop and optimise materials for AEM electrolysis, including membranes, ionomers and catalysts. In addition to our own catalyst synthesis, we work with partners to research precious metal-free materials for use in AEM electrolysers. We also develop innovative production processes for membrane electrode units.

3D-Modell einer MEA
more about our Development Services

Production

Our expertise includes various coating processes, including spray processes and large-area doctor blade and slot die processes. We advise on the transfer of laboratory-scale coatings to industrially scalable processes such as roll-to-roll processes and carry out quality assurance analyses.

more about our Production Services

Measurement and testing

For the characterisation of AEM water electrolysers, we have measuring cells with active areas of 5 to 25 cm² that allow pressures of up to 8 bar. Our test benches allow long-term tests according to predefined test protocols with a current runtime limit of 100 hours.

 

In addition to electrochemical investigations, the quality assurance of MEA manufacturing processes is carried out using high-resolution analytics, including µXRF mapping and layer thickness analyses. In order to simulate real-life operation, specially developed flow field inserts are used in the test benches.

more about our Measurement and Testing Services

Team Lead AEM Water Electrolysis

New Materials and Technologies Department

Dr. Moritz Pilaski
+49 203 7598-3408