Governments worldwide are under pressure to play their part in contributing to renewable energy targets as set out in various COP agreements. Green hydrogen has emerged as a pivotal solution in the transition. But can this sector deliver on the ever-ambitious targets being set for it? Our White Paper provides insights into four particular technologies back boning the development of fuel cells and electrolysers, thrusting the green energy response to global climate imperatives.
Take Europe as an example of where the pressure is being felt to meet expectations. In February 2024, the European Commission presented a recommendation for a 90% net greenhouse gas emissions reduction within the EU by 2040 compared to 1990 levels (building on the planned 55% emissions reduction by 2030). To align with the goal, the EU wants to produce 10 million tonnes (around 28.4Mtoe) of green hydrogen by 2030, while importing a further 10 million tonnes from outside the bloc — but it is on track to miss both targets.
For further context, the EU’s leadership asserts that it must cut greenhouse gas pollution three times more quickly than it has over the past decade to meet its climate targets.
The technologies set out in this White Paper are set to attract huge investment in the coming years, as governments accelerate their efforts to meet these difficult targets. In fact, this investment is becoming more apparent, with a recent announcement showing eight electrolyser manufacturing firms are to be supported as part of a €4.8bn ($5.1bn) European Commission Innovation Fund push, with an additional €135m in funding designated to Norwegian-based Nel for its new pressurised alkaline technologies. Similar funding drives were recently announced in the US and India. There is clear indication of the belief by governments worldwide in hydrogen-based innovation.
In this document, we take a comprehensive look at four technologies:
- PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell)
- AFC (Alkaline Fuel Cell)
- PEML (Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser or PEM Electrolyser)
- AEL (Alkaline Electrolyser (US: Electrolyzer)
An essential to the smooth running of overall fuel cell and electrolyser infrastructure, gaskets minimise the potential for leakages that can derail project success. The paper explains the requirements and concepts of cell sealing PTFE gasket materials for each technology in depth. In addition, an outlook on the respective application markets is given. The White Paper concludes with an outlook on current research priorities.
Recent developments have highlighted the importance of gasket seal technology selection in optimising performance, enhancing durability, managing overall budgets, and crucially, meeting project timeframes and lifetimes. Innovations in gasket materials and designs are contributing to improved efficiency and longevity of fuel cell and electrolyser systems.
For insights critical to understanding fuel cell and electrolyser gasket design and performance, Download our Fuel Cell and Electrolyser Gasket White Paper - Empowering Decarbonisation: Unveiling the Role of PEMFC, AFC, PEMEL, and AEL Technologies in Advancing Fuel Cells and Electrolysers.
