Introduction
With the increasingly severe challenges of global warming and energy security, hydrogen energy is now embracing its boom time as a highly efficient and clean energy. Among all hydrogen production options, water electrolysis is regarded as the most promising sustainable technology due to its wide availability of raw materials (water), pollutant-free byproducts, and zero-emission during productions. This technology not only complements the “dual carbon” goals but also integrates with renewable energy such as wind and solar power to convert electricity into storable chemical energy. According to predictions by the China Hydrogen Alliance, hydrogen produced via water electrolysis from renewable energy could account for up to 70% of China’s hydrogen supply by 2050, becoming the dominant source in the future hydrogen energy system.

Among the mainstream technological realization of hydrogen production from water electrolysis, Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyzer (PEM) draws a lot of attention for its high efficiency, high current density, and adaptability to wide power fluctuations. Its core component, the Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA), comprises the proton exchange membrane, catalyst layers, and the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL), also known as the Porous Transport Layer (PTL), serves as the ‘heart’ where the water-splitting reaction occurs.

The Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) is a precisely engineered porous medium situated between the bipolar plate and the catalyst layer. Physically, it provides mechanical support for the catalyst layer, ensures uniform distribution of the reactant (H₂O), and efficiently removes product gases (H₂/O₂). Electrically, it establishes an efficient pathway for electron conduction between the electrode and the bipolar plate. The synergy of these functions is essential for enhancing gas transport efficiency, ensuring product purity, promoting the electrolysis reaction, and safeguarding the overall stability and performance of the electrolyzer. Furthermore, the anode side of a PEM electrolyzer operates under extremely harsh conditions: a highly acidic environment, with high oxidation potential and an oxygen-rich atmosphere. These conditions impose stringent requirements on the material properties of the Gas Diffusion Layer. To meet these challenges, we must adopt a series of demanding performance criteria when designing and preparing the material:

Shinkai’s New Filtration Technology

Traditional metal materials feature great conductivity and structural support, but performance degradation is still inevitable in long-term service.

In dealing with such forefront challenges, Shinkai provides viable solutions for the preparation of high-performance GDLs with our innovated and proprietary metal filtration technology. Such technology is perfectly in tune with the core requirements of PEM electrolyzers for GDLs:

Superior Corrosion Resistance: It ensures high-temperature and acid environment while supporting acid washing regeneration, which is cut out for the harsh operating conditions of the PEM anode side.

Nanjing Shinkai

We offer a variety of products with different characteristics that cater to demanding operating conditions. Committed to technological innovation and R&D, we aim to provide precise solutions, including efficient and reliable customized filtration systems, for our clients to fix their pain points production, increase efficiency and improve workmanship. If you are struggling with filtration challenges, we look forward to in-depth cooperation with you, and you will enjoy our one-stop, full-process customized service.

Our service covers:

Design and Selection of Core Filter Cartridges

Planning and Design of Overall Process Workflow

Matching Selection of Key Valves and Instruments

Layout Design of Precision Pipeline System

Let’s work together to craft an optimal filtration solution for you!

References:
Chen Haiping, Hou Ming, Gao Yanyan, Qi Manman, Shao Zhigang. A Study on the Durability of the Gas Diffusion Layer in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells. 10.3969/j.issn.1002-087X. 2020.05.013
[J].Chinese Journal of Power Sources, 2020(05); 693-697.

Nanjing Shinkai Filter Co., Ltd.

www. shinkaifilter. com

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