Objectives
The IRION project aims to support the transition towards a more sustainable and circular hydrogen sector by addressing Europe’s growing dependence on critical raw materials used in water electrolysers. This is pursued through the development of recycling and manufacturing technologies for key components of proton exchange membrane water electrolysers (PEMWEs).
Its ambition is to overcome the economic, environmental and geopolitical challenges associated with scarce materials such as iridium and fluorinated ionomers. By integrating technological development with sustainability assessment and collaboration across the value chain, the project supports condotions for the wider deployment of green hydrogen technologies in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal and with reliance on imported critical raw materials.
Project objectives
Recover Critical Materials from End-of-Life Components
Develop low-impact recovery processes based on ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents (DES), and other green solvents to extract iridium and fluorinated ionomers from end-of-life catalyst-coated membranes (CCMs).
Enable Circular Manufacturing of PEMWE Components
Reintegrate recovered materials into new CCMs using advanced manufacturing techniques including inkjet printing, sputtering, and electrodeposition, with controlled catalyst distribution and membrane integration.
Validate Performance of Recycled Materials
Test recycled CCMs in PEMWE systems, assessing performance and durability against reference commercial materials.
Assess Environmental and Economic Viability
Evaluate the environmental footprint and economic feasibility of the proposed recycling and manufacturing solutions.
Promote Eco-Design for Future Recyclability
Investigate eco-design approaches for PEMWE stack components that facilitate dismantling and material recovery at end-of-life.
Reduce Dependency on Critical Raw Material Imports
Contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy by minimizing reliance on imported critical materials through domestic recycling and circular economy practices, aligned with the EU Critical Raw Materials Act.
Minimize Environmental Impact of Hydrogen Technologies
Replace high-impact recycling practices, such as calcination with selective recovery processes that limit emissions and risks to human health and the environment.
Enable Scalable and Replicable Solutions
Develop processes and methodologies with potential for scale-up across the European hydrogen industry