Development of a polymeric diaphragm for Alkaline Water Electrolysis

The importance of new technologies capable of providing clean energy is one of the most difficult and important challenge that science has to take up. The discovery of new green processes or the development of those already in use are common goals, which can partially solve the current climatic problems. The aim of this thesis is to extend the GVS portfolio with a polymeric separator able to improving the performances of alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) currently in use, as an alternative to separators produced by competitors. The separator consists of a membrane made of a high temperature resistant and chemically inert techno-polymer and an Inorganic filler. Once the new polymer had been studied to see how it affects the properties of the membrane and the basic information had been obtained, the influence of all the parameters in the preparation of the casting solution and the production process were analyzed. In addition, the most appropriate substrate and production method for the separator were investigated and selected in order to produce the best performing membrane possible. Once the best separator was produced, it was possible to compare it with those produced by competitors, achieving better results in most of the analyses carried out. The prototypes were sent to companies producing cells for the Alkaline Water Electrolysis in order to validate the results obtained internally and carry out stability analyses inside the cells. The next steps after this study will be to industrialize the process developed on a laboratory scale in order to obtain a product that will benefit both the manufacturer and the environment.