Hydrogen Technology

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Hydrogen represents a promising energy vector for the future. At HEF, we study and develop surface solutions that support the production, storage, transport, and energy applications of hydrogen, including electrolysis, compression, fuel cells, and hydrogen-powered engines.

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In the context of decarbonization, hydrogen emerges as a key solution. Its use as an energy carrier—produced and stored before consumption—can play a significant role in the energy transition, with applications in both industrial and mobility sectors. Hydrogen is abundant, its combustion does not generate CO₂, and its cycle includes production, storage, transport, and use in multiple industries.

HEF addresses environmental challenges by offering solutions across the entire hydrogen value chain, from production to thermal and electric mobility applications. Our goal is to offer robust, sustainable, and competitive solutions starting in 2025, paving the way for widespread adoption by 2030.

Fuel Cells and Mobility

Fuel cells operate on the reverse principle of electrolysis: hydrogen and oxygen react to generate electricity, water, and a small amount of heat. These systems power hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and other energy-intensive transportation, such as buses, trains, taxis, industrial fleets, and forklifts. Refueling with hydrogen is much faster than charging conventional batteries.

Energy Density and Storage

Hydrogen has a high energy density: 1 kg contains as much energy as 3–4 kg of gasoline, but its low natural density requires extraction and compression. The energy can be harnessed thermally through combustion with oxygen or electrically through fuel cells.

Advanced Surface Coatings for Fuel Cells

HEF develops advanced PVD carbon coatings for metallic bipolar plates in PEM fuel cells, improving corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity, and durability during thousands of operating hours. Our coatings ensure low contaminant levels and optimum performance in demanding environments.

High-Performance Coatings for Electrolysis

Hydrogen production also depends on surface-treated components. In electrolysis, bipolar plates and porous transport layers operate in corrosive environments. HEF’s PVD and PVD-PECVD coatings optimize durability and performance while minimizing the use of precious metals. Additionally, our expertise ensures surface precision down to tens of nanometers for maximum efficiency.

Conclusion

Hydrogen technology offers both environmental and economic opportunities. HEF provides sustainable, reliable, and competitive surface solutions to accelerate hydrogen adoption and facilitate its access in industrial and mobility applications.