Topic: Energy

Scientists are working on a new way to make green hydrogen that's cheaper and better for the environment. They want to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

Green hydrogen is an important part of moving away from fossil fuels. However, making it at scale is still expensive and complicated. One method, called PEM electrolysis, works well when electricity from wind and solar power rises and falls. But it's still more costly than producing hydrogen from fossil fuels. There are also environmental concerns because current systems use forever chemicals that can harm the environment and human health.

A team of researchers is working on a new system that avoids these harmful substances and uses less critical raw materials like iridium. They want to make green hydrogen more affordable and sustainable. Hydrogen is used in many industrial processes, and demand will only grow in the future.

The University of Southern Denmark, Graz University of Technology, and other partners are working together on this project. They're reviewing safer alternatives to forever chemicals and developing new membranes that can be used in electrolysis systems. They're also exploring ways to reduce iridium use by up to 75% and develop recycling methods to recover most of the remaining iridium.

The goal is to make green hydrogen production cleaner, cheaper, and more competitive with fossil-based hydrogen. This could help us store excess renewable energy and accelerate its use in heavy industry and other applications.

Why It Matters

This project matters because it can help India transition to a greener economy. Green hydrogen has the potential to power our industries and homes while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change.

Key Facts

• The SUPREME project aims to develop a PFAS-free electrolysis system that's more efficient and uses less critical raw materials like iridium.
• Current PEM systems depend on forever chemicals (PFAS) that can harm the environment and human health.
• The University of Southern Denmark, Graz University of Technology, and other partners are working together on this project.
• The goal is to make green hydrogen production cleaner, cheaper, and more competitive with fossil-based hydrogen.

Key Terms

PEM

Proton exchange membrane, a method used in electrolysis

Implications

This project matters because it can help India transition to a greener economy. Green hydrogen has the potential to power our industries and homes while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change.