Electrochemically transformed 3D hierarchical electrodes for green hydrogen production

Research question

The aim of this project is to develop novel electrode materials with ultra-low Iridium loading with improved efficiency and durability of proton exchange membrane-based water electrolysis (PEMWE). Our goal is to develop a unique electrochemical technique for the fabrication of these low cost and high efficiency electrodes over a unique porous transport layer (PTL) developed by Smoltek Hydrogen AB using patented nanofibre technology. During the project, we will convert these PTLs to porous transport electrodes (PTE) for driving highly efficient water electrolysis with much reduced Iridium loading than state of the art, which is the most critical aspect of green hydrogen generation using PEMWE.

Sustainability aspects

The sustainability of the hydrogen industry depends on the source of hydrogen production, the energy efficiency of the production process, and the environmental impact of hydrogen production and use. The advancement of PEMWE is essential in terms of efficiency, scalability and cost effective for widespread implementation. The durability of electrodes will be an important target to improve the lifetime of electrolyzers. The development of electrodes will focus on lowering the Ir loading to 0.2- 0.1 mg/cm2Ir, aimed at cost effectiveness of the electrolyzer system helping in building a sustainable infrastructure for hydrogen generation. The current proposal on PEMWE for making green hydrogen generation more effective and durable is closely related to several of the Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 11 – Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, SDG 13 – Climate Action and SDG 15 – Life on Land.