Hydrogen-based energy generation technologies, such as fuel cells, are expected to play an important role in the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy. Heraeus Precious Metals and Hulteberg Chemistry & Engineering AB have entered into a strategic partnership to jointly develop and commercialize a range of catalysts required for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) operation. Solid oxide fuel cells are a promising technology for the electrochemical conversion of hydrogen and fuels into electricity.
The portfolio will include catalysts for
the (pre)reforming of hydrocarbons, the generation of synthesis gas (H2/CO) by catalytic partial oxidation (CPOX), the purification of synthesis gas by water gas shift, preferential oxidation (PROX) and selective methanation reactions to obtain pure hydrogen (H2) as well as for exhaust gas combustion The partnership will strengthen both companies’ positions in the emerging field of SOFCs and the hydrogen economy. As part of the cooperation, Heraeus and Hulteberg will jointly approach customers and projects in the above areas and market new product innovations tailored to customer needs.
Heraeus Precious Metals, headquartered in Hanau, Germany, is one of the world’s leading providers of precious metal-related services and products. The company has extensive experience in the large-scale manufacture, development and recycling of heterogeneous catalysts, both in custom and contract manufacturing. In recent years, Heraeus Precious Metals has introduced numerous catalytic solutions for the production (electrolysis), purification and combustion (fuel cells) of hydrogen.
Hulteberg Chemistry & Engineering AB specializes in research, development and production of heterogeneous catalysts. The focus is on hydrogen production, electronics, and renewable and recycled fuels and chemicals. Based in Malmo, Sweden, the company has valuable technical and commercial expertise in steam methane reforming and preforming of catalyst formulations that can be used in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).
“Through our global partnership with Hulteberg, our customers will have access to existing new product innovations for precious metal and base metal based catalyst solutions. In addition, we can combine Hulteberg’s innovative strength with Heraeus’ existing large-scale manufacturing capabilities,” emphasizes Dominik Sperzel, Global Head of Sales Heterogeneous Catalysis at Heraeus Precious Metals.
“We are pleased that Heraeus has recognized the value of the catalyst technology we have developed and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial collaboration in this area. It is an excellent strategic fit for both companies,” adds Prof. Dr. Christian Hulteberg, CEO and founder of Hulteberg Chemistry & Engineering AB.
The commercialization of new catalyst technologies for (pre-)reforming, hydrogen purification and exhaust gas combustion is in line with both companies’ efforts to make an effective contribution to the energy transition.
