The Ruhr region is experiencing a structural change from coal to hydrogen. However, to produce hydrogen on a large scale through electrolysis, catalysts containing precious metals are currently still required. Knowledge and experience to develop the necessary new, cost-effective materials are concentrated in the region.

The aim of the Materials for Future Hydrogen Technologies platform, MAT4HY.NRW for short, is therefore to develop electrochemically active materials that are suitable for large-scale industrial use due to their good availability. By replacing expensive precious metal-based catalysts, the hydrogen production needed for the energy transition through electrolysis is to be made scalable for large scales.

From the idea to the assembly line

For the first time, MAT4HY.NRW will map and network the entire value chain of water electrolysis: From the theoretical calculations that point to suitable material combinations to the assembly line readiness of new materials and technologies. Since the platform integrates relevant industry partners, material-specific or process engineering challenges for companies are considered from the very beginning.

The network also wants to facilitate joint teaching events, further education formats and utilisation strategies for all aspects of materials research for hydrogen production in order to firmly anchor corresponding competences in the region.

Funding decision handed over

The state of North Rhine-Westphalia is funding the project. NRW Science Minister Ina Brandes presented Prof. Dr. Ulf-Peter Apfel of the Ruhr University Bochum with the funding notification.

ZBT involved in project

The consortium leader is the Ruhr University Bochum. In addition, the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) and the Westfälische Hochschule, University of Applied Sciences as well as the research institutes ZBT and IUTA and some members of the CENIDE - Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen are significantly involved in the cooperation platform.