Sustainion X37-50 Grade RT – Alkaline Anion Exchange Membrane
Anion Conductivity – Sustainion® X37 membranes showconductivity for:
- Hydroxide ions (OH⁻)
- Carbonate ions (CO₃²⁻)
- Chloride ions (Cl⁻)
Product Descriptions
Sustainion X37-50 Grade RT is a high-performance anion exchange membrane with a drythickness of 50 microns, developed for systems that utilize a supporting electrolyte. It isspecifically optimized for alkaline water electrolysis and CO₂ electrolysis, where high ionicconductivity and chemical stability are essential. To prevent mechanical damage during shipping, the membrane is supplied with an ethyleneglycol plasticizer. This conditioning agent protects the membrane from cracking and is removednaturally during the activation process. This membrane is currently offered only in 22 cm × 28 cm sheet format.
Additional Information :
Pretreatment & Activation Guidelines
Before first use:
- Each sheet comes with a protective liner attached to one side.
- During the alkaline activation bath, this liner will detach on its own.
- Once removed, it should be discarded and must not be used inside any electrochemical cell.
Activation for CO₂ Electrolysis
For CO₂ reduction experiments, the membrane must be converted into either the carbonate or bicarbonate form.
Recommended activation path:
- Step 1 – Convert to OH⁻ form:
- Immerse in 0.1–0.5 M KOH or NaOH for 6–12 hours.
- This step opens the pore structure and improves the subsequent ion-exchange process.
- Step 2 – Convert to carbonate/bicarbonate form:
- Transfer into 0.1–0.5 M carbonate or bicarbonate solution
(e.g., potassium carbonate or potassium bicarbonate dissolved in DI water). - Soak for 48–72 hours for complete conversion.
- Final step:
- Rinse thoroughly with DI water.
- The membrane is now ready for installation in the CO₂ reduction cell.
Note:
If the membrane is placed directly into carbonate/bicarbonate solution without the initial OH⁻ conversion, longer soaking times may be needed for full ion exchange.
