Iridium alternative could cut PEM electrolyser costs

Newhydrogen releases research showing it has successfully replaced iridium in trials with a cheaper and more durable alternative

Replacing iridium with other catalysts in proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers could greatly reduce the cost of producing green hydrogen, according to US clean energy developer Newhydrogen. Newhydrogen has a sponsored research agreement with the University of California at Los Angeles to develop technologies to reduce the cost of green hydrogen production. The firm is particularly focused on funding replacements for the precious metals iridium and platinum, which can account for up to half the cost of manufacturing PEM electrolysers. These materials are expensive compared with those used in alkaline electrolyers and require frequent replacement. $5/kg – Cost of producing green