H2 View understands the layer made of tetraphenylporphyrin (TTP) has been designed for use with nickel-iron (Ni-Fe) catalysts on electrolyser anode to prevent corrosion.

The GIST scientists says Ni-Fe catalysts are a cost-effective, potential solution to expensive electrolyser catalyst costs, however, are prone to corrosion, causing deactivation due to oxygen released at the anode.

“The major deactivation route for Ni–Fe catalysts is the dissolution of Fe at the oxygen emitting anode of the water-splitting cell,” Prof. Jaeyoung Lee, who led the research, said.

 The team found that the layer was able to shield the catalyst by creating a non-polar region around it, which it says significantly slowed down and reduced the dissolution of unstable Fe atoms in the catalyst.

Lee added, “The TPP layer was able to minimise the dissolution of Fe during the oxygen evolution reaction and thus, increase the life and performance of the catalyst.”

The researchers hope the development could come as a crucial step in reducing the cost of green hydrogen production. “The price of hydrogen production using water electrolysis is still too high,” said Lee. “This research can help us reduce the costs by using inexpensive, non-noble materials like Ni and Fe with a protection layer.”