Multi-scale physics of bipolar membranes in electrochemical processes

Abstract

Bipolar membranes (BPMs) enable control of ion concentrations and fluxes in electrochemical cells suitable for a wide range of applications. Here we present the multi-scale physics of BPMs in an electrochemical engineering context and articulate design principles to drive the development of advanced BPMs. The chemistry, structure, and physics of BPMs are illustrated and related to the thermodynamics, transport phenomena, and chemical kinetics that dictate ion and species fluxes and selectivity. These interactions give rise to emergent structure–property–performance relationships that yield design criteria for BPMs that achieve high permselectivity, durability, and voltaic efficiency. The resulting performance trade-offs for BPMs are presented in the context of emerging applications in energy conversion or storage, and environmental remediation. By connecting the fundamental physical phenomena in BPMs to device-level performance and engineering, we aim to facilitate the development of next-generation BPMs for sustainable electrochemical processes. Bipolar ion-exchange membranes are a class of charged polymers that enable precise control of ionic fluxes and local pH, making them potentially valuable for many energy and environmental applications. This Review focuses on the fundamental physics underpinning their operation across multiple scales, from nanomorphology to integration within devices such as in bipolar-membrane electrodialysis (BPM-ED).