How do new catalysts and membranes enhance electrolyzer efficiency and lifespan?
Electrolyzers split water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. Their economics determine whether clean hydrogen can compete with fossil-based alternatives across industry, transport, and power storage. Historically, high capital cost and modest efficiency limited deployment. Over the past decade, *materials science* has become the main lever for change, reshaping catalysts, membranes, electrodes, and structural components. The result is a steady drop in system cost per kilowatt and a rise in efficiency and lifetime.The main cost drivers in electrolyzersElectrolyzer cost is not dominated by a single part. Improvements therefore come from multiple material upgrades rather than one breakthrough.Catalysts: precious metals or…