Development of efficient membrane electrode assembly for low cost hydrogen production by anion exchange membrane electrolysis

Electrochemical production of hydrogen from water using anion exchange membranes (AEMs) can be achieved with non-noble catalysts, other than traditional proton exchange membranes that use platinum group metals. Using non-noble metals in the catalyst layer will reduce the capital costs associated with water electrolysis systems. The objectives of this study were to develop an effective membrane electrode assembly (MEA) for AEM electrolysis and to determine the effects of various operating parameters on AEM electrolysis. Here, the MEA consisted of the commercially available A-201 AEM and non-noble transition metal oxides as catalysts. The best electrolysis performance recorded was 500 mA cm−2 for 1.95 V at 60 °C with 1% K2CO3 electrolyte. For the purpose of comparison, we also considered commercially available AEMs for AEM electrolysis: Fumapem® FAA-3 and Fumapem® FAA-3-PP-75. The performances achieved with these AEMs were comparable with the performance recorded for the conventional AEM A-201. Overall, our results indicated that AEM electrolysis clearly manifests the feasibility of commercial viability.