BASF ECMS breaks ground on PEM electrolyzer, fuel cell component plant in Germany

BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS) has begun construction of its first production facility for green hydrogen and fuel cell components in Budenheim, near Frankfurt in Germany.

The facility, being developed with Trigona Fuel Cell Components and Grundstücksverwaltung Rheinufer, on the premises of an industrial site, is slated to open in 2025. BASF ECMS will produce newly developed low-iridium-loaded catalyst coated membranes (CCMs), a key component in proton exchange membranes (PEM) used for electrolysis of water, at the site.

It will also produce membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for high-temperature fuel cells, which are critical components that allow hydrogen and oxygen from the air to be converted efficiently into electricity.

"The new facility will enable the commercial launch of newly developed CCMs for PEM electrolyzers with multi-gigawatt capacity to serve the global market," the company said in a release, adding: "It will also allow BASF ECMS to expand its capabilities in precious metals, catalysts and recycling, positioning itself as an integrated, full-loop, end-to-end solution provider across a range of product lines in the green hydrogen space."

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The BASF ECMS hydrogen business operates globally, with activities in Europe, North America and Asia. 

Tim Ingle, Senior Vice President of Precious Metal Services and Recycling for ECMS said in a statement: "As a global leader in precious metals services and catalyst recycling, the investment solidifies our support for the growing hydrogen economy with circular solutions that improve performance and reduce costs for PEM electrolyzers and fuel cells."

Saeed Alerasool, Senior Vice President R&D and Application for ECMS, said: "Our new products have progressed successfully from R&D into pilot scale. Production in Budenheim signifies a major milestone for the market introduction of these products and positions us in a strong place to leverage this sizeable business opportunity."