In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Membranes’, researchers have unveiled new insights into bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED), a technology that could significantly enhance the efficiency of carbon capture processes in the cement industry. Led by Sadato Kikuchi from the Cement/Concrete Research Laboratory at Sumitomo Osaka Cement Co., Ltd., the research highlights the critical role of ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) in optimizing the production of acids and alkalis from salt solutions, a process central to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The study compares various anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) and salt solutions, specifically NaCl and Na2SO4, revealing that the choice of membrane can dramatically influence current efficiency (CE) and power intensity (PI). “Our findings indicate that the right combination of AEMs and salt solutions can lead to more efficient BMED operations,” Kikuchi stated, emphasizing the practical implications of their research for industry stakeholders.
BMED operates by applying voltage to a bipolar membrane, which splits water into hydrogen and hydroxide ions, facilitating the generation of acids and alkalis from dissolved salts. The research indicates that using a commercial proton-blocking AEM (ACM) with NaCl results in higher CE and lower PI compared to a standard AEM (ASE). Conversely, when Na2SO4 is utilized, ASE outperforms ACM, highlighting the complex interplay between membrane properties and ionic mobility.
The implications of these findings are significant for the energy sector, particularly in efforts to mitigate CO2 emissions from cement production. The cement industry is one of the largest contributors to global CO2 emissions, and innovative technologies like BMED could transform how emissions are managed. “By utilizing CO2 directly from exhaust gases, we can potentially eliminate the need for costly separation processes,” Kikuchi explained. This approach not only streamlines operations but also positions CO2 as a resource rather than a waste product.
As industries strive for carbon neutrality by 2050, the ability to optimize BMED through tailored membrane and salt combinations could prove pivotal. The research opens avenues for further exploration into membrane technologies, potentially leading to more sustainable practices in various sectors.
This study not only contributes to the academic discourse but also sets the stage for practical applications that could reshape the landscape of carbon capture and utilization. For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Cement/Concrete Research Laboratory.
