Fraunhofer develops cost-effective carbon bipolar plates

In Germany, researchers at Fraunhofer UMSICHT, in collaboration with Ruhr University Bochum, developed a new carbon-based bipolar plate, presenting a cost-effective alternative to titanium for PEM electrolysis without compromising on performance.

This innovative plate consists of a thermoplastic polymer-bound carbon matrix with conductive additives such as soot and graphite, produced through a powder-to-roll process. The new material has undergone rigorous ex-situ and in-situ testing, demonstrating promising performance comparable to titanium.

The carbon-based plates are easier to machine and weld, enabling new designs for PEM electrolysers. This development could replace titanium plates, reducing costs and facilitating the scalability of electrolysis technology, thus advancing the economical production of green hydrogen.