Scientists have developed a new type of catalyst, which is based on palladium instead of expensive platinum. It is supposed to allow for much cheaper production of hydrogen, considered one of the fuels of the future.
Hydrogen energy is becoming one of the key elements of a sustainable future, providing a zero-emission alternative to fossil fuels – experts from Tokyo University of Science remind.
Although it is very promising, large-scale hydrogen production relies heavily on expensive platinum-based catalysts. This in turn increases the price of hydrogen.
A Japanese team of scientists has overcome this challenge by developing a catalyst in the form of nanolayers composed mainly of palladium – much cheaper than platinum.
Like platinum catalysts, palladium nanolayers help obtain hydrogen from water through electrolysis.
One of the key parameters of any catalyst is its service life. The palladium-based invention, in addition to its efficiency similar to that of the platinum catalyst, has proven to be very stable.
“Our research brings us one step closer to making H2 production more affordable and sustainable. This is a key step towards a clean energy future,” says lead author Prof. Hiroaki Maeda.
Additionally, replacing platinum-based catalysts with palladium-based catalysts could reduce mining-related emissions, accelerating the transition to a sustainable hydrogen economy, the researchers suggest.
Marek Matacz
mat/ zan/
