SPF Hydrogen released the first 10kW AEM electrolytic cell in China

In Shenzhen, China, SPF Hydrogen achieved a groundbreaking milestone on December 15th by unveiling the world's first 10 kW Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyser cell, setting a precedent in the field. SPF Hydrogen Energy Technology Co., Ltd., also known as Shenzhen Wenshi Hydrogen Energy Technology Co., Ltd., stands at the forefront of technological advancements, focusing on the innovation and production of AEM electrolyser technologies, with its headquarters based in Shenzhen. Notably, the company had previously introduced China's inaugural 2.5 kW AEM electrolyser in February 2023.

The latest model boasts exceptional performance across various specifications. Operating with an energy consumption of 4.3 kWh/Nm³ for a single electrolyser, it exhibits an impressive lifespan surpassing 50,000 hours. The hot start time is a mere 60 seconds for a 0-100% range, while the cold start time is less than 5 minutes for the same range. With its outstanding performance and economic advantages in hydrogen production, the electrolyser is positioned for deployment in large-scale green hydrogen production and other relevant applications.

The electrolytic water hydrogen production landscape encompasses multiple technologies, such as alkaline electrolysis (ALK), proton exchange membrane electrolysis (PEM), solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC), and anion exchange membrane electrolysis (AEM). Each route possesses distinct technical characteristics, degrees of industrialization, and associated pros and cons. AEM electrolysis, unlike PEM, eliminates the need for expensive platinum group metals (PGM) catalysts and titanium bipolar plates, utilizing non-PGM catalysts and steel bipolar plates. Safety is another notable advantage of AEM electrolysis.

Comparatively, AEM exhibits superior response times compared to ALK and is on par with PEM electrolysis. While traditional ALK electrolysers are cost-effective, their slower response to fluctuating power supplies poses challenges in efficiently integrating them with renewable energy sources. The AEM electrolyser combines the advantages of ALK while mitigating its weaknesses.

Despite advancements, AEM electrolysers are still in early developmental stages, being produced and commercialized on a limited scale. Key global players in this domain include Alchemr and Enapter, with Alchemr already offering a kilowatt-scale AEM electrolyser and Enapter gearing up for larger-scale production from 2023. At the launch ceremony, SPF Hydrogen announced a significant contract with Silk & Road New Energy Co., committing to supply a substantial 15 MW AEM electrolyser. Looking forward, SPF Hydrogen envisions establishing a 100 MW manufacturing capacity by 2024, preparing for the imminent large-scale commercialization of AEM electrolyser technologies.