- Johnson Matthey and Syensqo recover PGMs and ionomers from PEM fuel cells and electrolysers.
- The HyRefine™ process recycles PGMs without polymer incineration.
- Syensqo extracts, purifies, and reconditions ionomers for reuse.
- Recycling reduces carbon footprint by up to 80% compared to using virgin materials.
Introduction
Johnson Matthey and Syensqo have developed a method to recover and reuse platinum group metals (PGMs) and ionomers from proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells and electrolysers. This process maintains performance while promoting material circularity.
Recovery Process
The companies have demonstrated kilogram-scale recovery of valuable materials from industrial scrap catalyst coated membranes (CCMs). These materials are reintegrated into new membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), advancing circularity in PEM systems.
PEM Technology
PEM technology is crucial in the hydrogen economy, offering high efficiency and adaptability to renewable power fluctuations. It uses PGMs as catalysts and fluorinated ionomers for proton conduction, including Syensqo’s Aquivion® technology.
Innovative Recycling
Johnson Matthey's HyRefine™ process chemically recycles PGMs without incinerating polymers. Syensqo complements this with a method to extract, purify, and recondition ionomers. Together, these processes achieve high recovery yields and maintain material integrity.
Environmental Impact
The recycling methods offer potential carbon footprint reductions of up to 80% compared to conventional routes using virgin materials. This advancement represents a significant step toward expanding material circularity in PEM technologies.
