Energy storage ion exchange membrane

What are ion exchange membranes?

Ion exchange membranes (IEMs) are the core component of electro-membrane processes, including electrodialysis, flow battery, water electrolysis, and ammonia synthesis via electrochemistry, demonstrating tremendous potential for precise separation, energy storage and conversion, and carbon emission reduction [1, 2].

What is multiple ion-exchange membrane (IEM) electrochemical system?

Multiple ion-exchange membrane (IEM) electrochemical systems can provide independent acid and alkaline environments for positive and negative electrodes respectively by decoupling pH, which improves the voltage of the aqueous batteries and prevents cross contamination of ions.

Can ion-exchange membranes be used for low-cost redox flow batteries?

The molecular engineering approach of this work will inspire the development of next generation of ion-exchange membranes for low-cost redox flow batteries and electrochemical storage. Redox flow batteries (RFBs) are promising for long-duration grid-scale sustainable energy storage.

What is the main function of an ion exchange membrane (IEM)?

The major function of IEMs (i.e. cation exchange membranes and anion exchange membranes) is the fast and selective ion transport and the partition of anode and cathode reactions .

Do ion-exchange membranes have high ionic conductivity and redox-active electrolytes?

The ion-exchange membrane is a key component that determines energy efficiency and cycling stability. However, it remains challenging to develop membranes with high ionic conductivity and high selectivity toward redox-active electrolytes. We report the development of ion-conductive polymer membranes with record-breaking energy efficiency.

How conductive and selective ion-exchange membranes can be used for sustainable processes?

The development of highly conductive and selective ion-exchange membranes has broad implications for many important sustainable processes, such as water electrolyzers and fuel cells, electrochemical separations, and electrodialysis for resources recovery and recycling.