Efficient Hydrogen Production - Precious-metal-free catalyst for alkaline water electrolysis
Ref.-No. 7147
Keywords: Water Electrolysis, Sustainable Hydrogen Production, Energy Transition, Decarbonization, Electrode Material, Catalytic Activity, NiCoFe Alloy, Alkaline Water Electrolysis, Electrolyzers,
Hydrogen electrolysis is considered one of the most promising technologies for sustainable production of hydrogen, one of the key fuels for the energy revolution and for decarbonizing various industries. But the efficiency and profitability of electrolysis is largely dependent on the electrode materials, which play a central role in reaction kinetics and long-term stability. To catalyze the necessary electrochemical reactions efficiently, these materials must feature high catalytic activity.
Scientists at Ruhr University Bochum have developed an electrode material. It is a NiCoFe alloy in a certain composition range featuring low overpotential for alkaline water electrolysis and enhanced resistance to reverse current. This new electrode material features enhanced electrochemical properties, improving hydrogen production efficiency.
Competitive Advantages
- Affordable manufacture
- High electrochemical activity
- Enhanced efficiency
Commercial Opportunities
The enhanced efficiency and stability can reduce electrolyzer operating costs, which is especially advantageous for industrial hydrogen producers. Companies in the chemical, steel, and energy industries could benefit from this development, since they can use it to decarbonize their processes with cheaper, longer-lasting electrolysis systems. The material can be used in both anodes and cathodes in alkaline hydrogen electrolysis. Other electrolysis methods besides hydrogen electrolysis are conceivable. There are various potential production methods. One possibility is metallurgical manufacture of bulk material for producing sheet and wire to be used as expanded metal or woven metal mesh in electrode manufacture. The method is also promising for manufacturing coating powders to be used in thermal and plasma spraying.
Current Status
Coated electrodes have been manufactured by means of electroplating and sputter deposition. The electrodes have been tested under relevant conditions. The technology has been registered with the German Patent and Trade Mark Office. It can be registered in other countries in the priority year or upon later PCT registration. We are looking for partners for refining the technology and implementing it in industry. The following cooperation forms are possible:
- Joint development and adaptation to specific applications
- Production partnerships
Technology Readiness Level
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Experimental proof of concept
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An invention from Ruhr University Bochum.
