British company CPH2 has been working on a membrane-free electrolyser since 2012. As a result, it does not need various rare earths, which other electrolyzers require. By 2030, the company aims to have reached an annual production capacity of 4 gigawatts.
There are currently several types of electrolysers on the market. Alkaline electrolysers and polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysers, for example, are already widely deployed. The common denominator in these electrolysers: they all have a membrane, which separates the anode and cathode. The membrane thus prevents undesirable chemical reactions from taking place. In addition, it makes the electrolysis process more efficient and smarter.
Electrolyser without membrane
So, a membrane is pretty important. However, CPH2 has developed an electrolyser without a membrane, appropriately named Membrane-Free Electrolyser (MFE). The company has not yet given much away about the technology, but it is a cryogenic system, cooled with liquid nitrogen, that produces pure hydrogen and oxygen. The system has a lifespan of 25 years, is easily scalable and has a modular design.
In addition, the electrolyser is made of only non-short-lived and recyclable materials. But which materials are they? The company does not mention that at the moment. What is known is that the use of various scarce earth metals is avoided, because there is no need for a membrane. By way of comparison: a PEM electrolyser does have a membrane and this can consist of platinum and iridium, for example.
Green hydrogen from solar energy
Despite the lack of detailed information, CPH2 is pushing hard. By 2030, it aims to produce 1 gigawatt of electrolysers annually in its own plant. Another 3 gigawatts of production capacity will be outsourced to external parties. One of those external parties is Ireland’s GHFG, a joint venture between energy company Alternus and solar developer Soleirtricity.
GHFB is currently building a factory where the first electrolysers should roll off the production line next year. They will be used in Alternus’ solar parks, where the solar energy generated will be converted directly into green hydrogen.
