[ industry update ] thyssenkrupp nucera , Fraunhofer IKTS partner on SOEC technology In an effort to bolster its standing in the future electrolysis market , thyssenkrupp nucera is strengthening its technology portfolio with hightemperature electrolysis ( SOEC ) technology of the Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS , with which it has entered into a strategic partnership .
For over 20 years , the research institute has conducted extensive research and development in Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cell ( SOEC ) technology , laying the groundwork for its industrialization . Together , thyssenkrupp nucera and Fraunhofer IKTS aim to advance high-temperature electrolysis ( SOEC ) towards industrial manufacturing and application .
By the first quarter of 2025 , a pilot plant designed and constructed by Fraunhofer IKTS is scheduled to commence operations . This facility will manufacture high-temperature electrolysis stacks with SOE cells – the core components of SOEC stacks , initially in limited quantities . The strategic partnership also grants thyssenkrupp nucera a license to produce and use CFY stacks , leveraging Fraunhofer IKTS ’ s SOEC technology .
SOEC stack technology is based on a gas-tight , oxygen-ion-conducting ceramic electrolyte with screen-printed electrodes and pressed interconnectors made from a chromiumbased alloy ( CFY ). The electrolyte-supported cells , the choice of materials , and the design ensure high efficiency , durability , and robustness , as well as the potential for cost-effective mass production . The future industrialization of SOEC technology will build upon the results of ongoing research and development efforts .
Stiesdal and Danfoss partner on hydrogen electrolyzer production Stiesdal Hydrogen and Danfoss have signed a commercial agreement on hydrogen electrolyzer production . The agreement signals the readiness of the two companies to introduce their latest innovation to the global market : an advanced hydrogen electrolyzer solution based on heat exchanger design .
Together , the two companies have developed a new and scalable solution for the core component of Stiesdal Hydrogen ’ s electrolyzer , a so-called electrolysis cell stack .
Leveraging Danfoss ’ s expertise in customized plates and welding , the prototype was designed and tested , and now the first electrolyzer production versions are successfully operating at a combined biogas and PtX ( Power-to-X ) plant in Denmark . There , green hydrogen is combined with surplus CO 2 from biogas to deliver methane gas .
Now , Stiesdal Hydrogen and Danfoss Heat Exchangers are ready to launch the electrolyzer to more markets and industries .
Bo Birkemose , Head of Strategic Partnering at Stiesdal , said : “ Together , we have achieved a milestone in re-engineering one of the core components of alkaline electrolysis . The result is an electrolyzer that integrates well with renewable energy sources and allows for costefficient green hydrogen production . Looking ahead , we see green hydrogen production as a cornerstone in stabilizing and balancing the global energy supply .”
Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 15 | April 2024 5