Diaphragm and Membrane for Alkaline Water Electrolysis with Zirconium Hydroxide Hydrogel as Hydrophilic Filler

A new type of separation materials for alkaline water electrolyzers has been obtained: a diaphragm synthesized by the phase inversion method and a multilayer microfilm membrane with zirconium hydroxide hydrogel as a hydrophilic filler. Experimental data on their porosity, electrical conductivity, and gas density, as well as the results of their tests as part of an alkaline electrolyzer battery are presented in comparison with a porous diaphragm based on polysulfone with a hydrophilic filler (TiO2), synthesized by the traditional phase inversion method. The advantages and disadvantages of new materials are assessed, and ways for further research and development are determined.