In a major breakthrough that could significantly reduce the cost of producing green hydrogen, researchers from Hanyang University in South Korea have developed a new low-cost catalyst that eliminates the need for expensive metals like platinum and iridium.
Published in the journal Small, the study outlines how the team engineered a cobalt-phosphide-based catalyst using a metal-organic framework (MOF) as a base. By incorporating boron doping and phosphorus tuning, the catalyst achieved remarkable efficiency in splitting water molecules during electrolysis—one of the most energy-intensive and expensive steps in green hydrogen production.
Currently, the biggest barrier to widespread adoption of green hydrogen is cost. The process of water electrolysis is still far more expensive than using fossil fuels to produce hydrogen. But with this new development, production costs could be halved, making green hydrogen more competitive with grey hydrogen in the long run.
Lead researcher Prof. In Young Choi said the new catalyst not only shows high electrochemical efficiency but also provides the stability required for industrial applications. The team now plans to test the catalyst in real-world electrolyzer setups and assess its durability under long-term use.
As countries across the globe ramp up investment in hydrogen infrastructure, innovations like this could play a crucial role in accelerating the energy transition. With affordability now within reach, green hydrogen may finally be poised to scale.
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