Catalyst-coated membrane reduces electrolyzer stack cost for H2 production

A new catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) technology for hydrogen production, developed by Honeywell UOP (Des Plaines, Ill.; uop.honeywell.com), is undergoing performance validation testing in partnership with manufacturers of proton-exchange membrane (PEM) and anion-exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzers. Made from both proprietary UOP materials and commercially available materials, the CCM technology is said to achieve higher electrolyzer efficiency and higher current density than currently available CCMs.

UOP employs several methods to apply its proprietary catalysts onto a specially designed membrane to produce the new CCM. With unique composition, structure and morphology, the CCM increases catalyst activity and ionic conductivity, allowing for higher efficiency. The efficiency improvement enables “higher current density that will provide a greater hydrogen production rate,” says Amanda Copperthite, Honeywell’s Global Head of Strategy, Consultancy and Marketing for STS (Sustainable Technology Solutions).

Honeywell says the CCM can achieve an estimated 25% reduction in electrolyzer stack cost, based on a PEM water electrolysis system using renewable power to produce 2,300 metric tons of H₂/yr with 5,000 operating hours per year. “Because of the efficiency improvements, the PEM electrolyzer system operates with an elevated current density for the same voltage, which reduces the electrolyzer stack size, and therefore reduces the electrolyzer stack cost,” explains Copperthite.

Honeywell UOP is now working on scaling up the CCM technology and is also working with partners on long-term performance validation of the CCM.