The "Fuel Cell Compass" presents a current extract of the companies working on the circular hydrogen economy. While currently the focus lies on the recycling of precious metals, efforts of OEMs and recycling companies are set towards standardization of component designs and processes.

High focus on precious metals recycling

Due to the high value of platinum group metals, the focus of companies is to recover these precious metals, with some companies achieving over 95% platinum recycling rates. In addition, some companies are exploring the reuse of bipolar plates and testing open loop recycling approaches to further enhance material recovery.

Increasing collaborations between OEMs and recycling companies

Hydrogen technology manufacturers and recyclers are increasingly collaborating to realize operational synergies. Siemens and Heraeus Metals, for instance, have formed a partnership focused on iridium and platinum recovery. Cooperations between recyclers are also established, where companies’ strengths are combined to improve the availability and efficiency. Hensel Recycling’s extensive expertise in collecting, dismantling and mechanical processing of end-of-life fuel cells, combined with Mastermelt’s proficiency in processing and refining of MEAs and manufacturing scrap, will provide a robust framework for such a partnership.

More effort in standardization are underway

Beyond recycling, significant efforts are underway to standardize component designs and processes. These initiatives aim to support reuse and maintain components within a closed-loop system, ultimately enabling higher recycling rates and a more sustainable hydrogen economy.

Important Notice

Although the “Fuel Cell Atlas” maps look at the fuel cell and hydrogen market from many different angles and business areas, they do not claim to be exhaustive. Nevertheless, all followers are invited to contribute to the topicality. The Fuel Cell Compass team will be happy to incorporate suggestions and additions submitted upon review.