Project SalYsAse

Saltwater electrolysis using marine bacteria on titanium gas diffusion layers (SalYsAse)

The CAPTN Energy joint project SalYsAse, funded by the BMFTR, is working to develop innovative technological approaches to efficiently use seawater directly for hydrogen production with the help of biocatalysts. Saltwater electrolysis makes it possible to produce ‘green hydrogen’ from the electricity generated by offshore wind turbines. Marine microbes are to replace or supplement conventional catalyst layers on porous gas diffusion layers. Another goal is to ensure long-term electrochemical performance and thus create a cost-effective and low-maintenance demonstrator. The biocatalytic activity is intended to reduce overvoltage at the electrodes, reduce unwanted side reactions and thus eliminate the need for prior water treatment, making the process of producing hydrogen from seawater more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The project is being carried out in close collaboration with microbiologists from the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research and materials scientists from the technology company Element22 GmbH.