Evonik Builds Multi-Million Euro Anion Exchange Membrane Plant in Germany

Evonik is building a pilot plant in Marl, Germany, for the production of its innovative high-performance anion exchange membranes (AEM). The membranes were developed by Evonik and are marketed under the DURAION brand. DURAION membranes are the core component of AEM water electrolysis, which enables cost-competitive production of green hydrogen. Evonik is investing tens of millions of euros in the plant, which is scheduled to be operational by the end of 2025.

"This strategic investment is in line with our business goal to further develop pioneering membranes as a true enabler of the green hydrogen economy," said Goetz Baumgarten, head of the Membranes & Fibers product line at Evonik's High Performance Polymers business line.

The membrane is a polymer and a high-tech product: on the one hand, it must allow the passage of anions, but on the other hand, it must not allow the passage of gases (such as hydrogen) produced during the electrolysis process. It must also be able to withstand high pressures and temperatures. Compared to conventional electrolysis processes, AEM technology allows for lower investment costs due to the use of less expensive electrolyser materials. In addition, the technology allows for high current densities and very high efficiency.

The DURAION membranes produced at the AEM Marl plant will be suitable for use in commercial electrolyzer systems. Once fully operational, the plant's membrane output will be enough to produce 2.5 GW of hydrogen with electrolysis capacity. In addition, the plant will be able to produce enhanced membranes, directly addressing customers' growing interest in this new technology. Over the past year, Evonik has steadily increased its production capacity for intermediate products used in DURAION membranes to expand its membrane business.