Germany-based Evonik opens AEM technology center in Shanghai

German specialty chemicals company Evonik opened its first anion exchange membrane (AEM) application technology center in Asia at Shanghai Xinzhuang Industry Park in Minhang district on June 9.

The center will focus on technical testing, product development, and application validation for hydrogen production through water electrolysis, helping accelerate the commercialization of related technologies beyond the laboratory stage.

AEMs are core components of water electrolysis systems for hydrogen production and play a critical role in system efficiency, stability, and operational safety.

Building on its long-standing expertise in high-performance polymers, membrane technology, and electrochemical materials, Evonik has developed its own Duraion anion exchange membrane products, providing key material support for the development of the green hydrogen industry.

Evonik operates in more than 100 countries and regions. In China, the company has more than 2,500 employees and 16 production sites and offices. In 2025, its sales reached 14.1 billion euros ($16.03 billion), including more than 1.4 billion euros from Evonik China.

Looking ahead, the center is expected to attract more upstream and downstream companies, research institutions, and partners to the green hydrogen ecosystem, helping pool innovation resources, promote coordinated development across the industrial chain, and support Minhang district's green energy sector.