Tag Archives: ELECTROLYSIS

electrolysis advances hyprael green hydrogen

Electrolysis advances by Fraunhofer IWS, IFAM & VECO

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Significant advances in electrolysis within HYPRAEL project thanks to the collaboration of Fraunhofer IWS, Fraunhofer IFAM and VECO PRECISION

The HYPRAEL project has achieved important milestones in the development of advanced electrolysis technologies, thanks to strong collaboration between its partners Fraunhofer IWS, Fraunhofer IFAM and VECO PRECISION. These advances promise to significantly improve the efficiency and durability of electrolysers, bringing green hydrogen production closer to a viable industrial scale.

Innovation in substrates and electrodes:

VECO PRECISION has led the development of an innovative 3D structured substrate and electrode. The new substrate facilitates electrolyte delivery and gas bubble removal, crucial for operating at high current densities and temperatures. Validation by Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulation has confirmed the effectiveness of this design. The 3D electrode, optimised through simulation and extensive testing, has been shown to significantly reduce the cell potential in hydrogen evolution reactions (HER) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER), outperforming the expanded Ni grid.

Development of efficient and durable catalysts:

Fraunhofer IFAM has focused its efforts on the development of long-lasting catalysts for HER and OER. A specially designed test rig has made it possible to analyse the behaviour of various materials under extreme conditions (temperatures up to 120°C and KOH concentrations of 1-45 wt%.) The results show an increase in electrode activity with temperature, albeit with a limit at 100°C, and lower activity at high KOH concentrations due to decreased conductivity and increased viscosity.

Optimisation of DSE production by APS:

Fraunhofer IWS has established a manufacturing process to coat the Veco Pin substrate with corrosion-resistant and HER- and OER-active species. Optimisation of the atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) process has made it possible to produce homogeneous catalyst coatings on spacers up to 130 mm in diameter. Different Ni and NiAl-based materials have been tested, achieving defect-free coating adhesion and high layer homogeneity.

Contact us for more information about the Electrolysis advances!

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Understanding electrolyzer costs: key to HYPRAEL’s innovation in green hydrogen production

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The HYPRAEL project is dedicated to advancing the efficiency and scalability of green hydrogen production through innovative electrolyzer technologies. A crucial factor in achieving widespread adoption of this clean energy source is the cost of electrolyzer systems. Recent data and analyses on electrolyzer costs provide valuable context for understanding the importance of HYPRAEL’s work.

Key insights on electrolyzer costs:

According to the latest information on electrolyzer costs in Europe (EU27, EFTA, and UK), the overall cost of electrolyzer systems can be broken down into two main categories:

  • CAPEX (Capital Expenditure): This refers to the upfront costs of the electrolyzer system (EUR/kW) and includes components like the stack, balance of plant (BoP), other utilities, and other capital expenses.

  • OPEX (Operating Expenditure): This represents the ongoing costs associated with operating the electrolyzer system (EUR/kW/year).

These costs vary depending on the electrolyzer technology used, primarily alkaline and PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolyzers.

HYPRAEL’s role in addressing cost challenges:

The HYPRAEL project directly addresses the challenge of electrolyzer costs by focusing on:

  • Improving efficiency: HYPRAEL’s research aims to enhance the energy efficiency of electrolyzers, reducing the amount of electricity required to produce hydrogen and, consequently, the operating costs.

  • Developing advanced materials and designs: By innovating in areas like electrode materials, cell design, and system integration, HYPRAEL contributes to lowering the CAPEX of electrolyzer systems.

  • Scalability: HYPRAEL’s advancements are geared towards enabling the large-scale production of green hydrogen, which is essential for cost reduction through economies of scale.

Understanding the breakdown of electrolyzer costs, as highlighted in recent reports, underscores the importance of projects like HYPRAEL. By pushing the boundaries of electrolyzer technology, HYPRAEL is playing a vital role in making green hydrogen production more economically viable and accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Discover the report of the European Hydrogen Observatory!

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HYPRAEL showcases at Aragon Hydrogen Week

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The HYPRAEL project, coordinated by the Aragon Hydrogen Foundation (FHa), made a significant impact at the I Aragon Hydrogen Week during the “Hydrogen Minds: Disruptive Projects” roundtable. This space, dedicated to presenting groundbreaking initiatives, allowed HYPRAEL to share its progress and objectives with a specialized audience.

Laura Abadía, R&D Coordinator at FHa, presented HYPRAEL, a project that seeks to revolutionize the hydrogen sector through bringing an innovative AEL concept for a dramatical change in efficiency, lifetime, Green Hydrogen Cost Reduction, and reducing the total cost of ownership of H2 in low temperature electrolysis.

During her presentation, Abadía emphasized the importance of innovation in developing sustainable solutions and the key role of projects like HYPRAEL in the energy transition.

The “Hydrogen Minds: Disruptive Projects” roundtable became a platform for the exchange of ideas and knowledge, where other projects coordinated by FHa also showcased their potential. HYPRAEL’s participation underscores the Aragon Hydrogen Foundation’s commitment to driving innovative technologies that contribute to decarbonization and sustainability.

Discover more!

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VECO Precision pioneers advanced technology solutions in emerging sectors

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VECO Precision, a key partner of the HYPRAEL project, is making significant strides into new and dynamic sectors, including the semiconductor industry and hydrogen production, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to innovation.

In a recent interview with Business Focus Magazine, General Manager Mischa Baert highlighted the company’s evolving focus:
“We are starting to make strides into new sectors, like the semiconductor industry, where demand for micrometre-level precision has opened up opportunities for us to supply components that require exceptional accuracy and material durability. These are areas in which we excel.”

VECO’s foray into hydrogen production aligns perfectly with the growing global focus on sustainability. Baert explained how their precision components are enhancing hydrogen production efficiency, contributing to the broader adoption of clean energy solutions:
“New opportunities also emerge as a result of the growing sustainability trend that is reshaping industries. We are exploring our role in hydrogen production – for example, our precision components can enhance the efficiency of hydrogen production.” .

“By aligning with industry trends, investing in advanced technologies, and emphasizing sustainability, we are ready to progress toward sustained growth and leadership in our markets.”, he concluded.

As a HYPRAEL project partner, VECO Precision plays a pivotal role in advancing the project’s goals by leveraging its expertise in precision technology to support innovative hydrogen solutions. This proactive approach reflects VECO’s dedication to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape while making a positive impact on sustainability and clean energy transitions.

Read the interview!

hyprael electrolysis ael concept mid term

HYPRAEL reaches its Mid-Term Review: progress and next challenges

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HYPRAEL project, dedicated to the development of advanced alkaline electrolysis technology for the production of H2 under pressure with near-zero energy loss potential, has reached a key milestone: its Mid-Term Review. During this event, all consortium partners met to discuss the progress made to date and to map out the strategies needed to meet the challenges that lie ahead.

With nine ambitious targets, HYPRAEL continues to set a promising course towards the future of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source. The meeting highlighted the collaborative work between the partners, which has enabled initial hurdles to be overcome and a solid foundation to be laid for the next phases of the project. However, it was also recognised that there is still a long way to go to reach the final goal.

As the project progresses, participants remain committed to continue innovating and collaborating to achieve the set objectives.

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Electrolysis takes center stage at the European Hydrogen Valleys 2024

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Looking to explore the future of green hydrogen? This 5-6 September 2024, join Hydrogen Europe at the European Hydrogen Valleys in Riga, Latvia. This pivotal event brings together the most promising emerging companies in the hydrogen space with established investors, corporate partners, and industry experts.

Electrolysis, a critical technology for hydrogen generation, will be a key topic of discussion. The event also features dedicated subtracks on storage and other crucial aspects of the hydrogen value chain.

Don’t miss this opportunity to:

  • Learn about the latest advancements in electrolysis technology.
  • Network with leading players in the hydrogen sector.
  • Explore potential partnerships and investment opportunities.

Register now and be part of the future of hydrogen!

Link to Event: https://digitaltechsummit.eu/events/2024/9/event-european-hydrogen-valleys-2024%5B3%5D.html?pageId=7738391