Branion® | 30 microns | AEM

Branion® AEM 30 is a 30 μm, non-reinforced anion exchange membrane (AEM) designed for low-resistance alkaline electrochemical applications. Featuring high OH⁻ conductivity, strong mechanical stability, and excellent chemical resistance, it is well suited for AEM water electrolysis and hydroxide-ion conducting systems.

The membrane features a proprietary hydrocarbon-based polymer backbone, providing strong chemical resistance to common alcohol and ketone solvents, including ethanol, isopropanol, acetone, and butanol. With an OH⁻ conductivity greater than 160 mS/cm at 80 °C, Branion® AEM 30 is well suited for applications requiring efficient hydroxide ion transport, including AEM water electrolysis and other alkaline electrochemical systems.

Key Features

• 30 μm nominal thickness for low membrane resistance
• Non-reinforced construction
• High OH⁻ conductivity: >60 mS/cm at 20 °C and >160 mS/cm at 80 °C
• High mechanical strength: >40 MPa tensile strength
• Low dimensional expansion: <10% in 1 M KOH at 80 °C
• Excellent chemical stability in acidic and basic environments
• Strong solvent resistance to alcohols and ketones
• High thermal stability: polymer decomposition temperature >250 °C
• IEC: 2.8 meq/g

Typical Applications

Branion® AEM 30 is suitable for research and development of:

• AEM water electrolyzers
• Alkaline electrochemical cells
• Hydroxide-ion conducting electrochemical systems
• Other applications requiring a thin, chemically stable anion exchange membrane

Handling & Storage

Branion® AEM 30 is supplied in dry form between a backing and cover foil. For long-term storage, keep the membrane sealed in its original packaging with minimal exposure to heat and light. The membrane may also be stored wet in water or aqueous electrolytes such as KOH.

For hydroxide-ion conducting applications, including AEM water electrolysis, the membrane should be converted to its OH⁻ form prior to use for optimal conductivity. NovaMea recommends soaking the membrane in 1 M KOH or NaOH at 80 °C, replacing the solution every hour for three cycles. An ambient-temperature exchange procedure is also available when heated electrolyte is not practical.

After ion exchange, minimize exposure to ambient air, as CO₂ can convert the membrane from the OH⁻ form to the bicarbonate form.

Note: Always handle the membrane with clean protective gloves in a clean, dust-free environment and minimize exposure to ambient conditions after opening.

 

Membrane Properties
Thickness	30 micrometers
Tensile Strength	>40 MPa
Elongation at Break (%)	>30%
Ion Exchange Capacity	~2.8 meq/g
Conductivity	>150 mS/cm (OH- form at 80 °C)
Water Uptake	60% (at 80 °C in 1 M KOH)
Swelling (%)	<10% (at 80 °C)