Modeling of Forward and Reverse Bias Conditions in Bipolar Membranes

Abstract

Abstract We present a set of analytical solutions to the problem of ion transport and field enhanced water dissociation in bipolar membranes. Most of the simplifying assumptions introduced in previous models have now been removed. Particular attention is paid to the effects caused by a non‐abrupt, smooth junction at the cation layer/anion layer interface, the forward bias characteristics of the current‐voltage curve, and the membrane electrical resistance. Despite of the coupling between ion transport and the chemical reaction responsible of the field enhanced water dissociation, the solutions derived are simple, and can readily find application in multidisciplinary fields like the biophysical modeling of biological membranes and the separation processes involving synthetic bipolar ion exchange membranes.