VSPARTICLE has validated its nanoporous catalyst layer technology, overcoming the critical iridium bottleneck in proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers. In collaboration with Plug Power and the Center for Clean Hydrogen at the University of Delaware, the team achieved high performance using up to 90 per cent less iridium, surpassing US Department of Energy targets.

The innovation maximises the efficiency of iridium, simplifies manufacturing, and supports recycling, creating a pathway for green hydrogen production at around $1 per kilogram - competitive with fossil-based hydrogen.

PEM electrolysers, previously constrained by scarce iridium, can now be scaled more effectively. VSPARTICLE is preparing pilot and early commercial projects with leading manufacturers, with integration and testing planned for 2026. The technology also has potential applications in anion exchange membrane electrolysis, promising to transform the economics of green hydrogen production.