For the “CircuPEM” project, the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT is collaborating with Ruhr University Bochum (project manager), the Heinz Nixdorf Institute, Heraeus Precious Metals GmbH & Co. KG, and Direct Matter. The goal is to develop a concept that will ideally enable the complete reuse of critical raw materials. The specific objectives are:

• development of a circular product and process design for the core components of the electrode and membrane assembly
• creation of a digital product passport that facilitates collaboration among relevant stakeholders in the value chain throughout the product lifecycle
• development of a circular business model that aligns the environmental and economic parameters for the stakeholders in the value chain

Fraunhofer UMSICHT is involved in the project through several work packages. “One of our main focuses is life cycle assessment,” explains Dr. Daniel Maga from the Sustainability Management and Participation department. “We analyze the circular MEA for electrolysers in accordance with ISO 14040/44 and conduct an impact analysis with a focus on climate protection – particularly with regard to greenhouse gas emissions.”

These assessments are based on a comprehensive understanding of the MEA. “As a department that develops and manufactures membrane electrode assemblies ourselves, we know exactly which materials interact in which layer and what requirements each component must meet,” says Dr. Mathias Smialkowski from the Power-to-Chemicals department. “This manufacturing expertise is crucial for incorporating recycling pathways into the design phase and enabling the recovery of critical raw materials such as iridium and platinum from the very beginning.”

In addition, the scientists are helping to design the product passport. To this end, they are defining what information about the electrolyzer and its components will be collected and made available throughout its entire life cycle. “This will form the basis for a system architecture that enables the secure storage, processing, and sharing of data throughout the entire value chain,” says Martin Distelhoff from the Digital Process Integration department.

A key element is a concept designed to ensure data integrity and protect sensitive information. The goal is to integrate appropriate technologies – such as cloud platforms, blockchain solutions, and IoT connections – in a way that ensures the digital product passport functions reliably. In addition, the UMSICHT team analyzes the relevant physical and digital interfaces through which product and usage data can be collected, transmitted, and linked within lifecycle management. The digital product passport thus creates the central information base for transparency, traceability, and the implementation of closed material cycles for the materials used.

Funding
The “CircuPEM – Circular Economy for PEM Electrolysis” project has been receiving approximately 2.9 million euros in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) since early 2026 as part of the “GreenEconomy.IN.NRW” innovation competition. In this way, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection, and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and the European Union are supporting projects in the region to shape a sustainable transformation. The funding period spans three years.