Bekaert and Toshiba Energy Systems and Solutions Corp have recently solidified their collaboration through a comprehensive global partnership, encompassing a strategic cooperation agreement and manufacturing technology license for Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEA). This pivotal component is integral to Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, playing a crucial role in advancing the production of green hydrogen. The strategic alliance builds upon the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by both companies in 2023, emphasizing their commitment to leveraging combined technological, manufacturing, and commercial strengths.

At the heart of this collaboration is the shared vision to accelerate progress toward sustainable green hydrogen production. PEM electrolyzers, pivotal in this process, utilize electricity to split water into its elemental components, oxygen, and hydrogen. The distinct advantage of these electrolyzers is their ability to produce hydrogen without emitting greenhouse gases when powered by renewable energy sources. However, the catalyst in PEM anode electrodes employs iridium, a metal with scarcity in global trade. This collaboration aims to address this challenge by introducing solutions that significantly reduce iridium content, marking a breakthrough for broader adoption of PEM electrolyzer technologies.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bekaert, known for its expertise in Porous Transport Layers (PTL), a vital component in the MEA of water electrolyzers, will collaborate with Toshiba to integrate its iridium-saving technology for MEA. This technological innovation is anticipated to achieve an impressive 90% reduction in iridium usage during the production of PEM electrolyzers. Such a reduction in iridium content holds the promise of creating a more stable supply of MEA, thereby facilitating the scalability of green hydrogen production. Simultaneously, Toshiba will extend a license for its iridium-saving MEA technology to Bekaert, granting them the capability to manufacture and distribute MEAs. Toshiba, in turn, will concentrate on further enhancing the technical performance of the technology. The global scope of this agreement is noteworthy, excluding Japan-related projects, which will be governed by a distinct agreement.

The Bekaert and Toshiba partnership marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable hydrogen production. By combining their strengths, these companies aim to revolutionize the landscape of PEM electrolyzers, making strides toward a greener, more sustainable future. The agreement's global scale and commitment to reducing iridium usage underscore the strategic importance of this collaboration in advancing the energy transition and addressing the pressing challenges associated with green hydrogen production. As Bekaert and Toshiba navigate this collaborative journey, the impact of their efforts on the broader energy industry will undoubtedly be closely monitored.