Platinum-Group Metals in Hydrogen Technologies
How platinum, iridium and other PGMs play different roles in hydrogen-energy equipment.
What this topic covers
How platinum, iridium and other PGMs play different roles in hydrogen-energy equipment.
Core energy-system ideas
PEM technologies use more than one PGM family depending on the electrode reaction.
Platinum is especially associated with PEM fuel-cell electrocatalysis and hydrogen evolution.
Iridium is particularly important on the oxygen-evolution side of PEM electrolysis, making PGM supply a multi-metal issue.
Important tradeoffs
Fuel cells, electrolyzers, storage and delivery equipment should be separated when estimating material demand.
Material and performance evidence
Energy-system performance depends on catalysts plus membranes, transport, power electronics, thermal systems and duty cycle.
Lifecycle perspective
Hydrogen and pressurized equipment require professional engineering and operating controls.