Lewatit^® ion exchange resins for the production of green hydrogen

We have developed special ion exchange resin grades within our Lewatit^® UltraPure range that can be used for water treatment in PEM electrolysis (Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis). This process, which converts electricity from preferably renewable energies into hydrogen, is regarded as a promising approach to the sustainable production of this precious gas. In this way, fluctuations in wind power and solar radiation can be better compensated.

Experts believe that PEM electrolysis will play an important role in the transition to a hydrogen-based economy. Compared to alkaline electrolysis, the high current density of PEM electrolysis allows hydrogen to be produced in smaller systems. Another advantage: hydrogen filling stations can be connected directly to the high-pressure outlet.

The process is now so well developed that it enables highly efficient production in the megawatt range. This requires continuous purification of the process water. We recommend our Lewatit^® UltraPure 1242 MD (Strong Base Anion exchange resin, SBA), Lewatit^® UltraPure 1212 MD (Strong Acidc Cation exchange resins, SAC) and Lewatit^® UltraPure 1295 MD ion exchange resins, which are optimized for this application, to ensure low TOC (Total Organic Carbon) throw.

Because of higher operating temperatures (50 – 70°) in the PEM process, we not only have impurities released during the PEM process, but also the TOC released by the ion exchanger installation, which could increase the organic (TOC) content of the process water. Therefore we have designed a special method of treating the process water with Lewatit^® UltraPure resin types in combination with a UV lamp.