Hydrogen production is set to be given a huge boost with Smoltek Nanotech having achieved a proof of concept for a nanofiber-based cell material for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers.
Unveiled today (Nov 3), this technology has significant potential to be used to develop a new generation of PEM electrolysers with the material providing better surface efficiency.
This could provide a boost to the production of hydrogen with more efficient electrolysers providing a better foundation for large-scale hydrogen production.
The material’s properties also make it suitable for other related applications which includes use within fuel cells.
Fabian Wenger, Technology Lead at Smoltek Innovation, said, “We have now shown that our cell material is an excellent carrier for the catalyst particles used in PEM electrolysers, and some of these results have already been presented to potential industrial partners in the form of large international manufacturers in the electrolyser field.
“Our material works as an interface layer with very low contact resistance for catalytic nanoparticles, for both electrons and hydrogen ions, and this is exactly what is in-demand in this segment.”
Ellinor Ehrnberg, President of Smoltek Innovation, said, “Our material constitutes a possible solution which can be applied broadly in the field of electrochemical cells.
“This includes fuel cells, which are expected to play an important role in the coming years for heavy transports. Water electrolysers on the other hand are key for producing green hydrogen gas that allows energy-intensive industries, like steel production, to become fossil free.
“Just looking at our home market Sweden, we are noticing very large investments in green steel production which is responsible for the development of the cell material.”
