Asahi Kasei and Power to Hydrogen (P2H2) have signed a memorandum of understanding. The aim of the cooperation is the market launch and future production of systems for water electrolysis with anion exchange membrane (AEM). This technology is to be used for producing hydrogen from renewable energies. Both companies announced this on November 4.
Both partners are already working on the joint development of AEM water electrolysis technologies. The memorandum of understanding that has now been signed is intended to form the framework for more closely integrating their competencies. According to its own information, P2H2 contributes its expertise in AEM electrolysis. Asahi Kasei contributes experience in electrolysis, manufacturing, and market launch. Together, the companies intend to assess the prerequisites for the future production and commercial deployment of AEM water electrolysis systems.
AEM electrolysis does not require iridium
AEM electrolysis is regarded as a possible alternative to established processes such as alkaline or PEM electrolysis. According to the companies, it combines lower-cost materials and non-critical metals with high operational flexibility. As a result, it could facilitate the integration of electricity from renewable energies and contribute to lowering the costs of hydrogen production.
P2H2 develops and produces electrolysis systems on an industrial scale. According to the company, its AEM technology platform is designed for flexible operation and relies on iridium-free materials. This is intended to avoid raw materials whose limited availability has to date hampered the large-scale scaling of electrolyzers. According to the company, P2H2’s systems are designed for direct connection to renewable energy sources with fluctuating electricity generation and can be scaled to multi-megawatt applications. According to the company, several commercial projects are already being implemented worldwide.
Asahi Kasei sees hydrogen as a strategic growth area
“This memorandum of understanding is an important step toward unlocking the commercial potential of next-generation water electrolysis technologies,” explains Kenji Takeda, Lead Executive Officer of Asahi Kasei and head of the company’s Green Solution Project. “P2H2 has comprehensive expertise in AEM technology, while Asahi Kasei contributes its strengths in manufacturing and commercialization. Together, we aim to assess the opportunities and challenges of AEM water electrolysis and to drive its market launch.”
According to its own information, Asahi Kasei regards hydrogen as a strategic growth area. Founded in 1922, the company has many years of experience in electrolysis and, according to its own account, holds a strong market position in chlor-alkali electrolysis. Through hydrogen demonstration projects in Japan and Germany, the group has also built up competencies in the hydrogen sector. In parallel with the further development of its existing technologies, the company is evaluating future technologies such as AEM water electrolysis in order to support the expected market growth over the long term.
The Asahi Kasei Group employs around 50,000 people worldwide and operates in the Healthcare, Homes, and Material business segments.
