Evaluation of Electrolysis Cell Degradation by Ion Analysis and Screening for Potential Catalyst Poisons

User Benefits

- Effortless ion monitoring for water electrolyzers - Simultaneous anion and cation analysis according to ISO 10304-1 and ISO 14911 - Additional detection of trace metal ions, including iron and cobalt

Introduction

Green hydrogen production by water electrolysis powered by renewable electricity is gaining increasing importance as a sustainable energy technology. To ensure stable operation and long service life of low-temperature water electrolyzers, continuous monitoring of cell degradation processes and water quality is essential. Early detection of membrane thinning or failure is particularly important because these processes directly affect cell efficiency and operational safety. In PEM (proton exchange membrane) water electrolyzers, fluoride release is a key indicator of fluorinated polymer membrane degradation. In addition, the determination of dissolved inorganic anions and cations can provide valuable information on contamination, corrosion, and the failure of system components such as ion exchangers. Water quality analysis is therefore an important element in the assessment of electrolyzer durability, as also recognized in an EU proposal with testing guidance for assessing performance degradation in water electrolyser stacks.

October 20, 2026 GMT