Materials and components

The Materials and Components group of the Electrolysis department is involved in the development and evaluation of cell components, catalysts and membranes for polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis (PEM-WE).

Since mainly iridium catalysts are currently used on the anode side for the long-life operation of PEM electrolysers, and since these are very expensive, it is important to make the best possible use of the material in the coating. Therefore, one focus of our work is on the development and optimization of catalyst coatings for the membrane. For the production of dispersions we have a sonotrode and various rotor-stator mixers at our disposal. We can coat membranes by ultrasonic spraying or with a doctor blade (direct membrane and decal method). In addition to ex-situ analysis by SEM, XRF and confocal microscopy, we are able to perform various electrochemical investigations on a laboratory scale up to 25 cm².

• Fabrication of catalyst-coated membranes or porous transport layers with your material
• Electrochemical characterization of catalyst-coated materials in test cells up to 25 cm² according to agreed test protocols
• Structural elucidation of materials (morphology, SEM, optical methods)
• Consulting on material selection and components for PEM-WE cells

In addition, ZBT offers you comprehensive analysis and characterization options for further components of electrolysis cells and stacks. Please feel free to request further information here.

Other activities in the field of PEM electrolysis:
Test and degradation analysis

Related links:

• AEM water electrolysis
• Portfolio: Electrolysis
• back to the PEM water electrolysis page
• back to the electrolysis department