PARZELL – Qualitative and Quantitative PFAS Analysis in Electrolysis and Fuel Cell Operations

In the PARZELL research project, we are investigating the release of PFAS from membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs) in proton exchange membrane electrolysers (PEMEs) and proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The goal is to systematically measure, evaluate, and ultimately reduce PFAS emissions under realistic operating conditions. To this end, we are working with our project partners to develop robust methods for sampling and conducting PFAS emission analysis on a laboratory scale. We use these methods to test both commercial and in-house-manufactured MEAs.

To ensure that the results are highly meaningful, we focus our investigations on dynamic load profiles under realistic conditions. For PEMWE, these are based on the fluctuating availability of electricity from wind and photovoltaic systems; for PEMFC, they are based on driving profiles derived from the Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool (VECTO).

The study examines both the gas and liquid phases to comprehensively identify emission pathways and potential accumulation effects. To this end, the project combines specially adapted sampling methods with customised analytical techniques.

The sampling setup will first be developed for a PEMWE cell and then adapted for use on a PEMFC test bench.

The project participants are developing mathematical correlations between the operating conditions of PEM electrolysers and the type and quantity of detected PFAS. The goal is to better predict potential PFAS fragments during operation in the future.

The results provide a scientifically sound basis for environmental assessments, low-emission products, and the long-term minimisation of PFAS emissions.

Building on this, PARZELL is evaluating initial approaches to reduce or eliminate detected PFAS emissions, such as through electrochemical decomposition or adsorption processes. This work is being conducted as part of the “Utilisation and Application Options” (vAW) program (technical utilisation of research results) and lays the groundwork for new technical solutions to reduce emissions in hydrogen technologies.