Green Hydrogen from Seawater with Double-Membrane Electrolysis – New Method
Here’s an article posted in Energy Post that talks about the double-membrane electrolysis method for harvesting hydrogen from seawater.
Here are the key takeaways from the article on extracting hydrogen from seawater using a double-membrane electrolysis method:
Double-Membrane System: The research conducted by the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and Stanford University, in collaboration with other institutions, utilizes a double-membrane electrolysis system to extract hydrogen from seawater without the need for prior purification.
Avoiding Toxic By-Products: This method is notable for its ability to avoid producing toxic by-products such as bleach and chlorine, which are common in other electrolysis methods due to the oxidation of chloride ions.
Control of Ions: The dual-layer membrane system controls the movement of ions, particularly preventing chloride ions from reaching the anode and causing undesirable reactions.
Efficient Ion Separation: The system separates useful hydrogen and hydroxide ions while blocking other ions, particularly chloride, thus enhancing the efficiency and safety of the hydrogen production process.
Applications Beyond Hydrogen: Insights gained from this research could also aid in the development of better membrane systems for other applications, such as oxygen production.
Potential for Scaling: The researchers are focused on using materials that are abundant and easily mined to facilitate the scaling up of this technology, which could significantly impact the production of low-carbon fuels.
Understanding Ion Flow: The study provides a deeper understanding of how ions move through these specialized membranes, which is crucial for optimizing the system and potentially applying the technology to other chemical separation processes.
Some of the interesting questions we have regarding this stuff:
How does the double-membrane system in the SLAC-Stanford experiment specifically control and limit the movement of chloride ions during the electrolysis process?
What are the specific challenges associated with scaling up this double-membrane electrolysis system for industrial use?
Beyond hydrogen and oxygen, what other gases or elements could potentially be isolated using modified versions of this bipolar membrane technology, according to the researchers’ findings?
Hydrogen Production from Seawater: New System by Researchers: Innovative system converts seawater into hydrogen fuel, providing a sustainable energy source and enhancing understanding of seawater ion movement. Green Hydrogen Shipping Fuel Project Abandoned by Equinor, Air Liquide, and Eviny: Norwegian project to produce liquified hydrogen for shipping, aiming for six tons daily, abandoned due to challenges in marine fueling.
