Preparation and research progress of anion exchange membranes

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) have a wide range of applications. They play a key role in areas such as water treatment, heavy metal recovery, hydrometallurgy and the electrochemical industry, such as hydrogen production via water electrolysis, electrodeposition of metal, electrodialysis technology, energy storage and cell and so on. In order to have a deeper understanding of AEMs, this study systematically summarized the research progress and application of AEMs in recent years, and analyzed and discussed the composition, conduction mechanism, preparation materials and processes, and modification methods of AEMs. In addition, the opportunities and challenges facing the current AEMs are summarized, and suggestions for future development are put forward, such as the development of new combinations and structural designs for membranes, increasing life span, and reducing energy consumption in application fields. We hope that our work will contribute to the development of this field.