RTU is auctioning a system for decoupled water electrolysis

Author
Riga Technical University

October 15, 2024

Until October 16, interested parties are invited to participate in the auction of intellectual property at Riga Technical University (RTU), where it is possible to purchase an innovative three-electrode system for decoupled water electrolysis in an acidic environment, developed by scientists from the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering.

A water electrolyzer is a device that uses electrical current to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases. Electrolyzers are used for hydrogen generation, including the production of renewable or so-called green hydrogen, which is generated using electricity obtained from renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. The commercialization of such electrolyzers can make green hydrogen more accessible and reduce emissions and their negative impact on the environment.

The water electrolysis system developed by RTU scientists, the rights to which are currently being offered for purchase in the auction, is a more energy-efficient alternative to membrane electrolyzers, whose membrane material, fluoropolymer, will be banned in the European Union starting in 2030.

The innovative system operates at room temperature, has energy advantages in the hydrogen release cycle and pressure regulation, and does not require auxiliary devices. The expected hydrogen production cost per kilogram using the RTU-developed system is on average 40% lower than using other types of systems.

RTU offers a license for the use of the invention to companies operating in fields such as renewable energy and equipment manufacturing, green hydrogen production, and more. 

The intellectual property was created under the State Research Program project No. VPP-EM-FOTONIKA-2022/1-0001 "Ecosystem of Smart Materials, Photonics, Technology, and Engineering." 

More information in Latvian about the solution offered in the auction. 

Information in Latvian about participation in the auction.

Photo: RTU Archive.