Heraeus and Mattiq Join Forces to Cut Iridium Use in Hydrogen Electrolysers

Heraeus

Partnership aims to boost zero-carbon hydrogen production with low-iridium PEM technology

Heraeus Precious Metals and Mattiq have partnered to develop low-iridium catalysts for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers. This collaboration targets the growing need for scalable solutions in zero-carbon hydrogen production.

The use of iridium in PEM electrolysers remains a major bottleneck due to its scarcity and cost. However, by lowering iridium content, Heraeus and Mattiq aim to make hydrogen production more commercially viable and sustainable. This initiative directly addresses one of the core material challenges in green hydrogen technologies.

Low-Iridium Catalysts to Unlock Scalable Hydrogen Tech

PEM electrolysers are vital in the push for clean hydrogen, yet their dependence on high-loadings of iridium, a rare platinum group metal (PGM), has constrained manufacturing scale. Currently, the global hydrogen economy struggles to meet projections, and the anticipated surge in PGM demand has been delayed—contributing to a 5.5% dip in iridium prices, now at $4,300 per troy ounce, as per Johnson Matthey data from February 5.

Despite current trends, industry experts like the World Platinum Investment Council predict a 32% rise in PGM demand in 2025, largely due to advances in PEM electrolysers and hydrogen fuel cells. This forecast makes the Heraeus–Mattiq collaboration especially timely, as it aligns with the market’s future trajectory.

Catalyst Innovation Poised to Accelerate Hydrogen Economy

Reducing the iridium content per unit will make PEM systems more cost-effective and accessible. As global interest in green hydrogen increases, industry players must optimize materials to ensure scalability. Heraeus brings deep expertise in precious metals, while Mattiq contributes cutting-edge chemical technology—together, they aim to redefine the catalyst market.

The success of this project could help stabilize long-term iridium demand while supporting the broader adoption of sustainable hydrogen technologies. Ultimately, the move benefits not only the hydrogen sector but also strengthens the case for clean energy transition globally.