Efficient electrolyzers are crucial for the advancement of the green hydrogen economy. BASF is offering a unique partnership to the energy sector, providing a tailored portfolio of polyarylethersulfones (PSU, PESU, PPSU) designed for components in water electrolyzers used for green hydrogen production. This initiative includes application expertise and reliable local technical support for part design, aiming to develop larger, more efficient, and durable electrolyzers, as per the media report.
With deep knowledge in complex injection molding applications and membrane casting, BASF assists customers in scaling up electrolyzer technology, thus facilitating the transition to clean energy. Their electrolyzer parts portfolio features Ultrason grades suitable for frames, gaskets, and separator membranes. Attendees can view an electrolyzer frame sample at the BASF booth during Fakuma 2024 in Germany.
According to the media report, Ultrason is particularly effective for metal replacement in various types of electrolyzers, including alkaline water (AWE), proton exchange membrane (PEM), and anionic electrolyte membrane (AEM) systems. The amorphous polymer offers exceptional temperature and chemical resistance, maintaining high purity in separator membranes and demonstrating superior performance under demanding conditions. Its mechanical properties remain stable at current operating temperatures (up to 90 °C) and are expected to perform well in future systems exceeding 120 °C.
BASF’s polyarylethersulfone ensures a long lifespan for electrolyzers by withstanding high compressive forces and exhibiting great hydrolytic stability. The thermoplastic can be utilized for both small and large injection-molded and extruded components. These advantages lead to lighter electrolyzers with greater design flexibility compared to metal alternatives.
With more robust and long-lasting electrolyzers, the efficiency of green hydrogen plants can be significantly enhanced. Erik Gubbels, from BASF’s Global Business Development for Ultrason, stated, “If you’re looking to develop parts for water electrolyzers focused on higher operating temperatures and longer lifetimes, we support companies in selecting the right Ultrason grade and offer expertise from part and tool design through to final serial manufacturing. We’re a global partner but act locally to develop high-quality injection-molded parts and high-performance separator membranes.”
Ultrason is especially recognized for its advantages in membrane applications, including low cyclic dimer content and consistent material quality, which provide stable spinning solutions for membrane casting. For over 25 years, Ultrason has set the market standard for membranes in the water filtration and dialysis industries, showcasing BASF’s extensive application and process expertise.
The Ultrason product range includes polyethersulfone (Ultrason E), polysulfone (Ultrason S), and polyphenylsulfone (Ultrason P). This high-performance thermoplastic is utilized in manufacturing water filtration membranes, durable household and catering applications, and lightweight components for the automotive and aerospace sectors. Ultrason materials can replace thermosets, metals, and ceramics in numerous applications due to their exceptional properties.
