thyssenkrupp nucera, Fraunhofer IKTS agree on a strategic partnership in SOEC technology

In Germany, thyssenkrupp nucera said it is strengthening its technology portfolio with the innovative high-temperature electrolysis (SOEC) of the Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTS. thyssenkrupp nucera and the Fraunhofer IKTS are entering into a strategic partnership for this purpose. The research institute has been carrying out extensive research and development work in SOEC (Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cell) technology for over 20 years and has done the necessary preliminary work with a view to industrializing this electrolysis technology. Together, thyssenkrupp nucera and Fraunhofer IKTS want to work to take the final steps in high-temperature electrolysis (SOEC) toward industrial manufacturing and application. As early as the first quarter of 2025, a pilot plant planned and built by Fraunhofer IKTS is scheduled to start operation for the production of high-temperature electrolysis stacks with SOE cells – the core elements of the SOEC stacks – initially in small quantities. The strategic partnership also includes a license for the production and use of CFY stacks based on the SOEC technology of Fraunhofer IKTS by thyssenkrupp nucera. Alexander Michaelis, Director of Fraunhofer IKTS, said: “We are very pleased to contribute our world-leading research and development expertise in SOEC technology to the partnership with thyssenkrupp nucera. In addition to the higher efficiency in electricity-to-hydrogen conversion, high-temperature electrolysis also offers the great advantage that CO2 can be actively extracted from the environment and converted together with green hydrogen into green synthesis gas and downstream products such as e-fuels.

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