FUJIFILM Cation-Exchange Membranes (CEM-Type 12) for Electrodialysis, CEFCEMT12

CEM-Type 12 (Cation Exchange Membrane Type 12, manufactured by Fujifilm Manufacturing Europe B.V.) is a high-performance, cost-effective homogeneous ion-exchange membrane widely deployed in electrodialysis (ED/EDR), reverse electrodialysis (RED), diffusion dialysis, and wastewater desalination systems. Unlike older-generation, thick heterogeneous membranes, CEM-Type 12 is produced using high-speed continuous roll-to-roll coating technology, combining a cross-linked aliphatic/aromatic polymer matrix functionalized with sulfonic acid groups onto a thin, mechanically robust reinforcement substrate.

The main features of the CEM-type12 are: (1) Low Electrical Resistance: The thin profile (~ 130 um) and high density of sulfonic acid fixed charges provide low internal ohmic resistance, significantly reducing energy consumption in electrodialysis stacks. (2) High Monovalent & Divalent Cation Permselectivity: Delivers high transport numbers for standard cations (Na+, K+, Ca^{2+}, Mg^{2+}) while strictly repelling co-ions (Cl-, SO4^{2-}). (3) Dimensional Stability & Low Swelling: The non-woven composite backing minimizes lateral swelling and distortion during alternating salinity or pH shifts, preventing internal stack leakage. (4) Wide Chemical Compatibility: Resistant to standard CIP (Clean-In-Place) chemical regimes, including mild acids and caustic washes.

The primary application fields are: (1) Electrodialysis (ED / EDR): Brackish water desalination, industrial zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) concentration, and food/beverage demineralization (e.g., whey, juice). (2) Reverse Electrodialysis (RED): Salinity gradient power generation (harnessing blue energy between river water and seawater). (3) Industrial Effluent Treatment: Recovery of heavy metal cations (Ni^{2+}, Cu^{2+}, Zn^{2+}) from electroplating rinses and acid recovery circuits. (4) Bipolar Membrane Stacks: Paired with anion exchange membranes (e.g., Fujifilm AEM-Type 12) for acid/base generation via water splitting.

Large sheet sizes also can be supplied upon request.