Hydrogen technology

The EBZ Group is one of the top suppliers in the automotive industry, specializing in toolmaking and plant construction. With our many years of experience in these areas, we are now concentrating our competencies in a targeted manner in the area of hydrogen technology.

In addition to planning, designing, and realizing production plants for fuel cells, we develop and produce state-of-the-art pressurized alkaline electrolyzers.

The continuous expansion of renewable energies sees a rise in the need for efficient energy storage technologies, as wind and solar energy are not continually available. Hydrogen can convert surplus electrical energy into chemical energy which can be stored in large quantities and utilized flexibly at a later stage.

In addition to being a versatile energy source, hydrogen is also an essential raw material in different areas of industry:

• Industry – Use as raw material in the chemical industry (e.g. fertilizer production, ammonia synthesis) and steel production (e.g. direct reduction process).
• Energy industry – Storage of surplus electricity and reconversion.
• Mobility – Propulsion for fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen combustion engines.
• Heat generation – Direct utilization for industrial processes

Thanks to its versatility, hydrogen occupies a central role in the energy transition, helping to replace fossil energy sources in the long term.

Different electrolysis technologies exist, and these differ in terms of their technical structure and degree of maturity. Each of these methods are employed in specific applications and exhibit development potential.

SOEC – Solid oxide electrolyzer cell

SOEC technology (solid oxide fuel electrolysis) is based on ceramic membranes which are only conductive at high temperatures (700–900°C). The major advantage of this technology is that part of the energy required for electrolysis can be provided by thermal energy.

SOEC systems are currently still in the development phase and could be used particularly efficiently in future in industrial processes with extremely high temperatures. A certain lead time is necessary to allow the cells to reach the required operating temperature, so SOEC systems are only conditionally suitable for intermittent operation.

AEM – Anion exchange membrane electrolysis

AEM electrolysis combines elements of AEL and PEM electrolysis. Instead of liquid electrolytes, AEM technology exploits a solid anion exchange membrane through which OH⁻ ions are transported from the cathode to the anode. The KOH concentration is considerably lower in AEL electrolysis than in AEL, slowing degradation and reducing wear.

The advantage of this technology is the possibility to use affordable materials (when compared to PEM) and, simultaneously, exploit the compact structure of PEM technology. This technology is also suitable for intermittent operation. AEM electrolysis is currently still in the development and test phase, with initial demonstration projects being conducted. Current challenges in the area of AEM electrolysis are primarily encountered with regard to the durability of exchange membranes.

A fuel cell is an electrochemical system that converts hydrogen and oxygen directly into electrical energy, heat, and water – efficiently, quietly, and free of emissions. In contrast to conventional combustion processes, this conversion does not occur through thermal reactions, but through a controlled electrochemical reaction. The basic structure of a fuel cell consists of an anode, a cathode, and a membrane positioned between these. The hydrogen fed in is split at the anode into protons and electrons by a catalyst (usually platinum). While the protons pass through the membrane to the cathode, the electrons need to pass through an external circuit, and this generates electrical current. Protons, electrons and oxygen ultimately come together on the cathode, forming pure water as a reaction product.

This core system is supplemented by other functional components. Gas diffusion layers ensure that the reaction gases are uniformly distributed and electrical conductivity is improved. Bipolar plates take on electricity distribution between individual cells in a fuel cell stack, regulate the gas flow, and aid heat dissipation. Sealing systems prevent the escape or mixing of gases, and stable and safe operation is assured through integrated cooling and supply structures.

Fuel cells can be used for diverse applications. In mobility, they enable emission-free operation of vehicles with a high range and short refueling times. In stationary applications, they supply buildings and industrial plants with electricity and heat in an efficient manner. In off-grid regions or as an emergency power supply, they also provide a reliable and self-sufficient energy supply. Fuel cells are regarded as a core technology for a sustainable energy transition, due to their extreme efficiency, environmental friendliness, and flexibility.