LG Chem Develops Next-Gen Electrolysis Tech, Doubling Green Hydrogen Production Time and Improving Stability

LG Chem has announced a breakthrough in green hydrogen production with the development of a novel interface stabilization technology for polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) water electrolysis electrodes. This innovation promises to significantly enhance electrode durability and hydrogen production efficiency, potentially doubling production time while improving stability.

The new technology addresses a key challenge in PEM electrolysis: the high cost of iridium, a rare metal essential for electrodes. While PEM electrolysis offers advantages over traditional alkaline electrolysis, such as higher hydrogen production rates and better responsiveness to power fluctuations, the reliance on expensive catalysts has been a major hurdle for commercialization. LG Chem's approach uses an atomic-scale coating layer on the iridium catalyst to prevent excessive oxidation and iridium leaching, while simultaneously strengthening the bond with the ion-conductive polymer in the electrode.

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This research achievement is a case where LG Chem's material technology competitiveness has been recognized globally.

This advancement allows for a substantial reduction in iridium usage, potentially by more than half, while maintaining stable hydrogen production for extended periods even under high current density conditions. The company projects that this will lead to significant reductions in both initial investment and maintenance costs for PEM electrolysis systems.

LG Chem has also successfully completed large-area electrode fabrication using a continuous process based on its proprietary electrode technology, validating the potential for mass production and commercialization. The company is currently evaluating its products with several global electrolysis system manufacturers and plans to continue development toward commercialization. This achievement highlights LG Chem's material technology competitiveness on a global scale and its commitment to securing leadership in next-generation hydrogen production technologies.

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We will continue to expand related research and development to secure competitiveness in next-generation hydrogen production technology.