Modeling and experimental assessment of Nafion membrane properties used in SO2 depolarized water electrolysis for hydrogen production

A critical analysis of transport properties (diffusion, osmotic flux, conductivity, permeability) of Nafion membrane was carried out. Several correlations were elaborated to provide a consistent description of these properties in a wide range of electrolyte concentrations and membrane hydration states. A model for a sulfur dioxide depolarized electrolyzer (SDE) based on these new equations has been validated by experiments carried out with different electrode materials and electrolytes.

► A critical analysis of transport properties of Nafion membrane was carried out.
► New correlations were elaborated to provide consistent properties descriptions.
► A new equation for water transport through the membrane was elaborated.
► Equations were validated with SO2 depolarized electrolysis experiments.