China has achieved a major milestone in hydrogen technology with groundbreaking progress in proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis for hydrogen production. At the “2025 Membrane Industry Development Conference and the 30th Anniversary Achievement Exhibition of the China Membrane Industry Association” in Beijing, the project titled “PEM Water Electrolysis Hydrogen Production Membrane Electrode, Electrolyzer, and Applications,” jointly developed by Beijing Zhongke Green Hydrogen Technology Co., Ltd. and the Institute of Chemistry at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, received the first prize of the “China Membrane Industry Association Science and Technology Award.” This marks a significant leap in the country’s core technology for PEM hydrogen production.

PEM electrolysis is recognised as a key pathway for producing green hydrogen due to its high purity output (exceeding 99.99%), rapid response, and seamless integration with renewable sources such as solar and wind energy. It also plays a strategic role under China’s “Medium and Long-Term Plan for the Development of the Hydrogen Energy Industry (2021–2035).” Historically, however, the domestic industry has faced several challenges, including dependence on imported materials, limited technical maturity, and high production costs. Imported proton exchange membranes can cost up to $1,200 per m², while the iridium catalyst contributes 20–30% of total system costs, restricting the technology’s scalability.

The award-winning project successfully overcame these barriers through a collaboration that united research institutions and industry partners. Evaluated by leading experts from Tsinghua University, Tianjin University, and other institutions, the project was found to have reached an internationally advanced level. It has secured six national invention patents, creating a robust independent intellectual property system. The resulting technology has significantly improved electrolysis performance and system lifespan, replacing imported products and mitigating supply chain risks.

The “China Membrane Industry Association Science and Technology Award” is the highest national honour in the membrane separation field, officially approved by the Ministry of Science and Technology and awarded biennially to projects demonstrating outstanding innovation and industrial impact. This recognition not only underscores the authority of the technology but also propels its industrialisation.

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https://www.metal.com/en/newscontent/103593632