Set to begin operations next year, the facility in Budenheim, Germany, will develop low iridium-loaded catalyst coated membranes (CCMs), used in proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers up to the multi-gigawatt capacity.

In addition, the Celtec® membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for high-temperature fuel cells will also be produced in Budenheim.

Being developed in partnership with Trigona Fuel Cell Components GmbH, the facility will allow BASF ECMS to expand its capabilities in precious metals, catalysts and recycling.

“This new site in Budenheim fulfils a key part of our global strategy for hydrogen,” claimed Tim Ingle, Senior Vice-President of Precious Metal Services and Recycling for ECMS.

“As a leader in precious metals services and catalyst recycling, the investment solidifies our support for the growing hydrogen economy with circular solutions that improve performance and reduce costs for PEM electrolysers and fuel cells.”

Saeed Alerasool, Senior Vice-President R&D and Application for ECMS, added, “Our new products have progressed successfully from R&D into pilot scale.

“Production in Budenheim signifies a major milestone for the market introduction of these products and positions us in a strong place to leverage this sizeable business opportunity.”

Last year, BASF’s PEM electrolyser plant in Ludwigshafen began its construction phase after €124.3m ($135m) in funding was approved by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

Read more: BASF German PEM electrolyser plant enters construction phase