Smoltek Hydrogen, specializing in innovative solutions based on carbon nanotechnology, and Heraeus Precious Metals, a global precious metal solutions provider, have signed a term sheet on a strategic collaboration on advanced iridium-based catalyst solutions for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward developing the next generation of PEM electrolyzer technology, supporting the global energy transition with scalable and sustainable solutions.

Boosting the functional efficiency of PTEs for next-gen PEMWEs

“By combining our nanostructure technology with Heraeus’ expertise in advanced catalyst formulations, we aim to further push the limits of iridium efficiency in PEM electrolyzers, paving the way for cost-effective green H₂ production,” said Ellinor Ehrnberg, President of Smoltek Hydrogen.

The cooperation partners will combine their knowledge to advance the functional of porous transport electrodes (PTEs), representing the next generation electrodes for PEM electrolyzers.

“Collaborating with Smoltek Hydrogen allows us to combine their innovation speed with our industrial experience and scale. Together, we aim to achieve a significant leap in catalyst efficiency and provide solutions that meet the needs of a growing H₂ market,” said Philipp Walter, Executive Vice President, Business Line Hydrogen Systems, Heraeus Precious Metals.

Strong synergies. The partnership reflects the strong synergies between Heraeus’ global industrial expertise and Smoltek’s innovative solutions based on carbon nanotechnology. It also highlights the increasing importance of reducing iridium dependency in the H₂ industry, as global demand for PEM electrolyzers continues to rise.

“Heraeus’ unique low-iridium catalyst solutions have made them known as the technology leader by everyone in the PEM electrolysis business. Placing this on our nanofibers, which also are designed for ultra-low iridium content, should be a breakthrough creating echoes in the whole industry,” said Ellinor Ehrnberg, President of Smoltek Hydrogen.