CENMAT
CENMAT
Organisation Introduction
Cutting-Edge Nanomaterials UG (CENmat) is based in Berge, Germany. Founded in 2019 as a spin-off of the German Aerospace Center, the company focuses on developing and manufacturing electrolysers. CENmat is a vertically integrated water electrolyser firm built for the climate era. Its sustainable, scalable, highly efficient, and low-cost water electrolysis technologies enable the production of economical and truly green hydrogen.
Why SWEETHY?
Our involvement in this project perfectly aligns with our mission to push the boundaries of clean hydrogen production. At CENmat, we are committed to advancing electrolysis technology by eliminating the need for harmful, costly, and critical raw materials while enhancing both the performance and durability of water electrolysis systems. A key focus of our research in the SWEETHY project is the development of high-performance, PFAS-free Anion Exchange Membranes (AEMs) tailored for direct seawater electrolysis. Direct seawater electrolysis presents unique challenges for membranes. Impurities and biofouling from microorganisms and organic matter will reduce hydroxide ion conductivity while chloride crossover to the anode through the membrane remains a significant safety and durability hurdle. To address these issues, we are developing an AEM specifically engineered to mitigate these challenges by reducing chloride crossover while ensuring long-term durability and efficiency. By leveraging our expertise in advanced polyelectrolyte and ion-exchange membrane design, CENmat is paving the way for a more sustainable and cost-effective pathway for hydrogen production directly from seawater—reducing the reliance on freshwater resources.
What in SWEETHY?
In this project, we will develop strategies to adapt CENmat’s AionFLX™ AEM series for direct seawater electrolysis. Our focus is on enhancing membrane performance in seawater by addressing key challenges such as chloride crossover, fouling, and maintaining high hydroxide conductivity. This effort is closely integrated with our partners, who will support the characterization and testing of the membranes to ensure their optimal, long-term performance in direct seawater electrolysis.
“We are excited to contribute to the advancement of direct seawater electrolysis by collaborating with partners and pushing this technology forward with our membrane innovations toward real-world applications.”
