Anion-Exchange\nMembrane Oxygen Separator

Anion-exchange membranes (AEMs), known for enabling the\nhigh conductivity\nof hydroxide anions through dense polymeric structures, are pivotal\ncomponents in fuel cells, electrolyzers, and other important electrochemical\nsystems. This paper unveils an unprecedented utilization of AEMs in\nan electrochemical oxygen separation process, a new technology able\nto generate enriched oxygen from an O<sub>2</sub>/N<sub>2</sub> mixture\nusing a small voltage input. We demonstrate a first-of-its-kind AEM-based\nelectrochemical device that operates under mild conditions, is free\nof liquid electrolytes or sweep gases, and produces oxygen of over\n96% purity. Additionally, we develop and apply a one-dimensional time-dependent\nand isothermal model, which accurately captures the unique operational\ndynamics of our device, demonstrates good agreement with the experimental\ndata, and allows us to explore the device’s potential capabilities.\nThis novel technology has far-reaching applications in many industrial\nprocesses, medical oxygen therapy, and other diverse fields while\nreducing operational complexity and environmental impact, thereby\npaving the way for sustainable on-site oxygen generation.