Access to advanced technologies for smaller companies too
In the HOLMES-AEM project, the Center for Fuel Cell Technology (ZBT), the University of Duisburg-Essen, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS are jointly developing a novel process for the production and characterization of precious metal-free catalysts for alkaline membrane water electrolysis.
8 Dec 2025Share
In order for AEM (anion exchange membrane) technology to reach its full potential, powerful yet cost-effective catalysts are needed. Until now, screening processes have been time-consuming and only cover individual compositions. In the HOLMES-AEM project, the Duisburg-based ZBT and its partners are therefore pursuing a new approach: Laser-based synthesis produces catalysts from high-entropy alloys. Targets with many different sectors are used to specifically vary the composition of the nanoparticles during the ongoing ablation process.
A key unique selling point is the combination of this laser ablation with a spray process for the production of graded membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). This results in cells in which up to ten different catalyst compositions can be tested simultaneously – in just one experiment. The subsequent magnetic field-based operando analysis makes it possible to record the local activity of the individual areas non-invasively and under real operating conditions.
The results create new opportunities for companies along the entire value chain – from catalyst and electrode manufacturing to measurement technology. Small and medium-sized enterprises in particular are set to benefit from simplified access to newly developed materials and analytical methods that can be used for quality control and optimization of electrolysers.
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