Imagine a water-splitting machine that works like a high-end battery but produces hydrogen gas instead of electricity. Most current versions use expensive precious metals or forever-chemicals that harm the planet. This project creates a new 'filter' and catalyst using common materials to make hydrogen cheaper and cleaner.
Green hydrogen production is currently hindered by the high cost of precious metal catalysts and the environmental impact of fluorinated membranes. These factors make green hydrogen more expensive than traditional fossil-fuel-based methods.
A TRL4 5-cell stack prototype and a suite of PFAS-free membranes and PGM-free catalysts designed for high-efficiency electrolysis.
If you are a plant operator dealing with high energy costs for hydrogen production — this project developed a system that targets 85% efficiency. This allows you to produce 3 times more hydrogen with less energy compared to existing alternatives.
If you are a developer dealing with the high cost of PEM electrolyzers — this project developed a CRM-free catalyst and PFAS-free membrane. This aims to bring the cost of hydrogen down to 2.5€/kg, making it competitive with traditional gas methods.
If you are a producer dealing with strict PFAS regulations and environmental footprints — this project developed fluorine-free ionomers and membranes. This ensures a cleaner production cycle while targeting a 10-year equipment lifetime.
The project targets a Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) of 2.5€/kg, which is 17% lower than the 2030 target and aims to compete with steam methane reforming at 3 €/kg.
The project is validating a TRL4 prototype consisting of a 5-cell stack at 100 cm² that delivers 7.2 Nm3/day of hydrogen at 15 bar.
Based on available project data, the consortium is developing disruptive materials including fluorine-free ionomers and PGM-free catalysts intended for upscaling by industrial partners.
The project aims to meet the 2030 target for a 10-year lifetime through the use of lower KOH concentrations to reduce membrane degradation.
The project is testing the use of impure water to improve the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and reduce overall costs.
The consortium is well-balanced for technology transfer, featuring 11 partners across 6 countries. With a 45% industry ratio (5 industrial partners, including 1 SME), there is a strong bridge between the 6 research/university entities and commercial application. The presence of major players like SYENSQO and CEA indicates high capacity for both material synthesis and system integration.
Contact the Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives (CEA) in France.
Contact us to connect with the AEMELIA consortium for licensing PFAS-free membrane technology.
