Project Portugal 2030

Summary

Recently, polymeric AEMs have been developed for electrochemical system applications. The current AEMWE state of the art in academic literature is mostly focused on catalyst and membrane development. Although some AEMs are already commercially available, they still present two major drawbacks: the mobility of anions through the AEM is much lower than the mobility of protons through a PEM and they do not present good chemical stability. However, the development of new membranes is not a topic of the team expertise, therefore, commercially available membranes will be used and the research will be focused in catalysts and membrane electrode assembly. The development of this technology involves a future roadmap for the systematic development and commercialization of AEMWE systems and components [2]. An important research topic is testing at a laboratory scale small demonstration units (AEM electrolyzer short stacks) that can be used to validate the technology [2]. Increasing the technology readiness level (TRL), from 2-3 to 4-5, is the main motivation of this proposal. The main project goals, aligned with scientific research gaps, are: i) development of efficient and durable (more than 2000 hours [2]) low-cost non-PGM (0%) catalysts for HER and OER, ii) increase AEM electrolyzer performance in 10% by using a tailored membrane electrode assembly, iii) explore the use of different feeding solutions, including treated wastewaters, iv) performance and durability characterization of both AEM single cell and stack (hopefully maintaining the same targets for both). Therefore, this project aims to be innovative in three main aspects: - Link the components development with its performance assessment in practical applications, i.e. in AEM stacks operating at relevant conditions; - A clear understanding of the source(s) of performance losses and degradation mechanisms (membrane, ionomer, catalyst, bipolar plates (BPP)), employing advanced electrochemical characterization techniques and accelerated stress tests (AST) [4]. - Explore the use of treated wastewaters or pure water instead the state-of-the art alkaline solutions, as feeding solutions. Developed catalysts should be stable and durable considering the pH fluctuations (7-9) when using different feeding solutions. The project's success relies on cross-disciplinary cooperation, involving expertise in electrochemistry, materials design, process engineering and water chemistry. Collaboration with industry guarantees that the research outcomes are both relevant and applicable in practical situations.