Priya PatelTLDR:
- thyssenkrupp nucera and Fraunhofer IKTS are working on commercializing high-temperature SOEC technology.
- The partnership aims to establish a pilot plant by Q1 2025 to produce SOEC cells in small quantities.
thyssenkrupp nucera and the Fraunhofer Institute of Ceramic Technologies and Systems (IKTS) have teamed up to advance the commercialization of high-temperature solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC) technology. Fraunhofer IKTS, with over 20 years of SOEC research and development experience, is collaborating with thyssenkrupp nucera to move towards industrial manufacturing and application of this innovative technology. The partnership includes plans to set up a pilot plant by early 2025 to produce SOEC cells in limited quantities. The technology utilizes a gas-tight oxygen-ion-conducting ceramic electrolyte with screen-print electrodes and pressed chromium-based alloy (CFY) interconnectors, offering thyssenkrupp nucera a license to produce and utilize the CFY-based SOEC stack technology. This partnership marks an important step for thyssenkrupp nucera, a major player in alkaline electrolysis, in diversifying its hydrogen production portfolio with this highly efficient SOEC technology. Dr. Werner Ponikwar, CEO of thyssenkrupp nucera, stated that the adoption of SOEC system solutions aligns with the company’s growth strategy. The high-temperature electrolysis method utilized in SOEC technology enables water splitting at temperatures up to 800°C, significantly reducing the electrical energy required compared to low-temperature electrolysis. Prof. Dr. Alexander Michaelis, Director of Fraunhofer IKTS, highlights the efficiency and versatility of high-temperature electrolysis in producing green hydrogen and CO2 conversion for downstream applications like e-fuels. Dr. Christoph Noeres, Head of Green Hydrogen at thyssenkrupp nucera, emphasizes the complementary nature of SOEC technology with the company’s existing electrolysis portfolio, underscoring decades of experience in developing and scaling electrolysis plants. Last year, thyssenkrupp nucera introduced its Scalum 20MW alkaline electrolyser system, further showcasing the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable hydrogen technologies.
