Technology

In Proton Exchange Membrane, also referred to as Polymer Electrolyte Membrane and, less frequently, as Solid Polymer Electrolyte (SPE) PEM Electrolyzers, the Electrolyte is a Gas-tight thin (below 0.2 mm in thickness) Polymeric Membrane with a cross-linked structure and strongly acid character due to the presence of functional groups of the Sulfonic Acid (SO₃H) type. These groups are responsible for the Proton (H⁺) conducting ability of the Materials through an Ion Exchange Mechanism. As for the PEM Fuel Cells, the most commonly used membrane for Water Electrolysis is Nafion (a DuPont trademark).

The modules of the PEM Electrolyzers almost invariably adopt a bipolar configuration in which the electrical connection between Cells is carried out by means of Bipolar Plates that also play an important role in the evacuation of the generated Gases.^[1]

1. Ursúa, Alfredo et al. “Hydrogen Production From Water Electrolysis: Current Status and Future Trends.” Proceedings of the IEEE 100 (2012): 410-426.