PEM Electrolysis

Imagine harnessing the future of energy from the simplest, purest elements on Earth: water and electricity. Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis (PEM) makes this possible, transforming water into hydrogen and oxygen with precision and efficiency, revolutionizing how we think about clean energy. This technology is not only a technical masterpiece but also a key to a sustainable future, where renewable energy sources are the norm rather than the exception. DiLiCo introduces you to the world of PEM electrolysis, where innovative chemistry meets the most pressing energy supply challenges, paving the way for a greener tomorrow.

How does PEM Electrolysis work?

Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis (PEM Electrolysis) is an advanced method of producing hydrogen, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis. The heart of this technology is the proton exchange membrane, which acts as an electrolyte, separating the anode from the cathode. When the system operates, water at the anode is split into oxygen, protons (hydrogen ions), and electrons. The oxygen gas produced is collected and can be used separately. The protons pass through the membrane to the cathode, and the electrons flow through an external circuit. At the cathode, the protons and electrons combine to form hydrogen gas. This hydrogen gas accumulates at the cathode and can be used for various applications.

Catalysts and Electrolytes

Catalysts and electrolytes are the core components of PEM electrolysis. Catalysts such as iridium and platinum play a crucial role by accelerating the chemical reactions at the electrodes, increasing the efficiency of the electrolysis. The solid polymer electrolyte enables proton transfer between the electrodes, ensuring the smooth operation of the process. Ongoing research and development aim to create more efficient and cost-effective catalysts and electrolytes. These advancements are essential for further optimizing PEM electrolysis and making its large-scale application economically viable.

Advantages of Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis

PEM electrolyzers offer a range of advantages that make them an attractive technology for hydrogen production and contribute to advancing hydrogen technology and building sustainable energy systems. The key benefits include:

• High Efficiency: PEM electrolysis is known for its high energy efficiency. The direct conversion of electrical energy into hydrogen gas occurs with relatively low energy losses. This efficiency is achieved through advanced membrane technology and precise control of the electrochemical process.
• Fast Response Times: The system can quickly respond to changes in energy supply. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for operating with intermittent renewable energy sources such as wind or solar, which have variable electricity production.
• High Hydrogen Purity: PEM electrolysis produces highly pure hydrogen, requiring no additional purification steps. This purity is essential for applications requiring high-quality hydrogen, such as in fuel cell technology or the chemical industry.
• Compact Design: The electrolyzers are relatively small and compact compared to other electrolysis processes. This allows for modular and scalable integration into various applications, from small decentralized systems to large-scale production plants.
• High Operating Temperatures: PEM electrolysis can operate at higher temperatures than many other electrolysis processes, further improving efficiency and enabling the use of waste heat from industrial processes.
• Low Environmental Impact: As PEM electrolysis can be powered by renewable electricity, no direct CO2 emissions are produced during hydrogen generation. This makes it an environmentally friendly solution for producing green hydrogen.
• Operational Flexibility: The technology can operate under various conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from small decentralized systems to large industrial plants.

Popular Applications of the PEM Electrolysis Process

PEM electrolysis is used in various fields and plays a key role in hydrogen generation for numerous purposes. Here are some of the main applications of this technology:

1. Green Hydrogen Production:

PEM electrolysis allows for the conversion of excess renewable electricity, produced during times of high generation (e.g., strong sunlight or wind), into hydrogen. This hydrogen can be stored and later used in fuel cells or other applications to provide energy when renewable electricity production is low.

2. Fuel Cell Vehicles:

Hydrogen produced by PEM electrolysis can be used as fuel for fuel cell vehicles. These vehicles offer an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional combustion engines, as they emit only water.

3. Industrial Processes:

Hydrogen is required in the chemical industry for various processes, such as synthesizing ammonia, methanol, and other chemicals. PEM electrolysis can provide a sustainable and clean hydrogen source. In the oil and gas industry, hydrogen is also used for hydrogenation and desulfurization of crude oil. PEM electrolysis offers a way to meet hydrogen demand in an environmentally friendly manner.

4. Power Generation:

Hydrogen from PEM electrolysis can be used in fuel cells for stationary power generation. This can help supplement or replace fossil fuels in power plants and other energy generation systems.

5. Heat Supply:

The hydrogen and oxygen gases produced during PEM electrolysis can also be used in special combined heat and power plants to generate both electricity and heat.

6. Decentralized Energy Supply:

In remote or isolated areas, where access to the power grid is limited, PEM electrolysis can offer a sustainable solution for hydrogen production, which can then be used as an energy carrier for local applications.

7. Aerospace:

Hydrogen is used in space exploration as rocket fuel. PEM electrolysis can contribute to the production of pure hydrogen for these applications.

Electrolysis in Germany: Status Quo and Future

In Germany, electrolysis plays a central role in the national hydrogen strategy. Although relatively little hydrogen is currently produced by electrolysis, there are ambitious plans to significantly increase production in the coming years. PEM electrolysis will play a key role, as it provides an efficient and scalable method of producing hydrogen from renewable energy. The future of electrolysis in Germany looks promising, and the technology is expected to become even more important in the coming years. By increasing the use of PEM electrolyzers, Germany can achieve its goals of reducing CO2 emissions and promoting sustainable energy carriers.

Innovations for the Hydrogen Economy of Tomorrow with DiLiCo

PEM electrolysis is a key technology for hydrogen production, offering you not only high efficiency and flexibility but also a reliable solution that seamlessly integrates into your existing systems. With our expertise and advanced PEM electrolysis measurement techniques from DiLiCo, you can ensure that you always benefit from the latest developments in hydrogen technology. We are committed to meeting your specific requirements and providing tailor-made solutions that improve your energy efficiency and environmental footprint. Let us shape the future of energy together.