[ industry update ]
WEVO-CHEMIE develops new sealants and adhesives for electrolysers WEVO-CHEMIE GmbH has introduced new materials applied as liquid sealants and adhesives for automated production of alkaline , AEM , and PEM electrolyser stacks , significantly speeding up the process compared to manual assembly . These materials , based on modified polyurethanes , epoxy resins , and silicones , offer high chemical resistance , low hydrogen permeation , and good adhesion .
In alkaline systems , Wevo ’ s materials withstand challenging conditions created by hot potassium hydroxide solutions . For AEM and PEM electrolysers , the new sealants ensure robust performance and adaptability , providing innovative solutions for sealing , stack design , and automation .
The epoxy resin systems offer exceptional chemical resistance and low gas permeability , suitable for bipolar plates and stack cells . The low-viscosity WEVOPOX
30010 enables seamless integration of components without additional gaskets or adhesives .
For PEM electrolysers , addition-curing silicones and modified polyurethanes deliver high resistance in acidic conditions . Wevo ’ s thixotropic silicone systems are customizable for specific structural and operational needs .
Free from PFAS , these materials provide a sustainable alternative to traditional inlay gaskets , meeting potential future regulatory requirements concerning the use of PFAS .
Applied as a liquid via dispensing or screenprinting , Wevo ’ s sealants and adhesives harden as a CIPG ( cured-in-place gasket ) or FIPG ( formed-in-place gasket ). The long pot life of silicone materials supports uninterrupted screenprinting processes , with fast curing in convection ovens or using near-infrared radiators .
RWE announces largescale green hydrogen plant in Scotland RWE has announced plans to develop a green hydrogen project in Grangemouth , Scotland , supplying the first hydrogen produced to INEOS Grangemouth . Once developed , consented and operational , the initial capacity is anticipated to be up to 200 MWe , with potential expansion to 600 MWe at a later date .
This project could be operational by 2029 , constructed on land within the Grangemouth industrial complex , adjacent to the INEOS facility . The hydrogen produced will be piped a short distance to the site . This project will support INEOS Grangemouth ’ s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2045 and contribute to the decarbonization of other existing and future industries in Grangemouth .
RWE has completed concept , feasibility and pre-Front-End Engineering Design ( FEED ) studies . A grid connection has been secured and the company is shortlisting electrolyser suppliers . The next steps will be progressing towards a planning application , which will include local consultation on the project .
Sopna Sury , COO Hydrogen at RWE Generation , commented : “ This is a significant step towards RWE ’ s ambitions for the production of green hydrogen in Scotland . As one of the world ’ s leading energy companies , RWE has significant experience in onshore and offshore wind , developing green hydrogen production plants and operating large scale gas plants .”
6 Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 16 | June 2024