Membrane with integrated spacer

We present the preparation and characterisation of a novel cation exchange membrane where the spacer is formed directly on the membrane surface and is hence integral part of the membrane. This membrane with integrated spacer is formed by surface patterning of a drying polymer solution in contact with a regular membrane spacer where capillary forces pull the solution towards the spacer strands where they solidify. Peeling of the original spacer leaves the membrane with the spacer topology integrated in its surface. Characterisation of this novel membrane in an ED process improves process hydrodynamics while avoiding the resistance increase corresponding to the shadow effect of a non-conductive spacer. Having a spacer directly on the membrane surface has also the advantage of a much simpler membrane module assembly since the spacer becomes superfluous.