Many advancements are being made in hydrogen technology around the world as we look to deal with the global climate crisis and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Using a steam reformation process is the most common way to do so. However, this process emits CO2, so scientists have turned their attention to alkaline water electrolysis. This can be done on a large industrial scale without emitting CO2, as such is the case with Nippon Shokubai’s hybrid separator.
A key component in the alkaline water electrolysis system is the separator, which needs to hold up during extreme conditions. The process takes place under high temperature and high alkaline concentration, making it challenging to create separators that can withstand these conditions. The alkaline water electrolysis separator must have a high resistance to the cross permeation of oxygen and hydrogen and low ohmic resistance of separators (high ionic conductivity).
Nippon Shokubai has been creating catalyst materials since 1941. They have developed a new separator using their unique organic-inorganic hybrid, sheet forming technology. The new separator is a big deal to move forward into the “green hydrogen” future. Able to withstand the high temperatures and extreme conditions, will allow for a more widespread implementation of the alkaline water electrolysis technology.
Nippon Shokubai’s innovative new separator is expected to enable higher hydrogen purity while reducing electrical power consumption.
The company introduced its product on Feb. 26th at the 11th International Rechargeable Battery Exhibition, which is held in the Aomi Hall in Tokyo.
Hydrogen technology is becoming more popular around the world in everything from fuel cells for vehicles to the introduction into existing gas lines for heating. With this new highly efficient separator that’s also resistant from gas cross-permeation, we could see hydrogen become popular even more quickly than it has.
In our global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, these technological breakthroughs are necessary if we are to shift anthropogenic climate changes in a positive way. I hope that I will be able to continually write about scientific breakthroughs that help our planet.
