China evaluates PGM hydrogen demand

Alkaline systems are looking to increase PGM loadings to improve production efficiency, while PEM manufacturers are working on the opposite to cut costs

Manufacturers of competing hydrogen production equipment in China are taking different approaches when it comes to their use of platinum group metals (PGMs), influenced by industry demands ranging from more energy-efficient production to lower material costs. China produces less than 2pc of its 35mn t/yr of hydrogen via electrolysis, which requires the use of platinum, iridium and ruthenium as catalysts, but electrolysis is expected to increase its share of the hydrogen supply mix, expanding the market for PGMs. “Electrolysis is a niche market and PEM electrolysis is a niche of the niche” Huang, SSHE Electrolyser manufacturers delivered 458MW of capacity last year, and research firm