Viable recycling approaches to electrolyser stacks

The project will analyze the state-of-the-art recycling chain for the proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis system and its components, such as the porous transport layer (PTL) and bipolar plates (BPP). It will identify the best technical and economic recycling chains and calculate the recycling rate. By examining the recycling chain, the project will pinpoint weaknesses and challenges while considering environmental, economic, and sustainability factors. This analysis will lead to the development of improved or new processes, resulting in an enhanced overall recycling chain. Second-life strategies for the PTL and BPP will be evaluated, including potential reuse in less demanding applications. The feasibility of regeneration and re-functionalization will be assessed, along with technical and economic viability. A testing procedure for second-life applications will also be developed. Various recycling and second-life strategies (circular scenarios) will undergo evaluation using a newly developed sustainability assessment tool based on the 17 SDGs. Eco-design requirements and recommendations will be derived from the recycling and second-life strategies.