The Tough Tech problem we are solving
Building PEM (proton exchange membrane) fuel cells and electrolyzers at scale runs into two materials problems. Metallic bipolar plates are practical to manufacture, but matching that practicality to the electrochemical performance of graphite, the material long used for its performance, has been difficult. Membrane electrode assemblies face a similar tradeoff: today's highest-performing membranes typically rely on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds, and moving away from PFAS without losing power density or durability is not straightforward. Cost and performance in these two components stand between hydrogen technology and wider adoption.
About our solution
Clenersys builds two patent-protected products aimed at those two problems, CORE and PRIME. CORE applies specialized carbon-based inks to create conductive coatings on metallic bipolar plates, compatible with the standard roll-to-roll steel coating and stamping lines factories already use. PRIME works on the membrane side. It increases the density and mobility of protons within the membrane electrode assembly, aims to eliminate PFAS compounds, and is built for the same high-volume roll-to-roll manufacturing. Both target OEMs building PEM-based electrolyzers and fuel cell stacks: lower cost and higher performance, without a change in how the components get made.