HYMEC
Hybrid Microbial Electrolyser for Hydrogen Production and Valorisation of Fermentation Effluents
Context
LGC and TBI are collaborating to valorise fermentation effluents and wastewater into hydrogen. This is achieved by coupling microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) technology with a half redox‑flow battery mechanism. Leveraging the energy content of fermentation and wastewater streams, the hybrid system is expected to significantly boost hydrogen production relative to conventional microbial electrolysis cells, while mitigating typical safety and efficiency concerns associated with standard MEC operation.
Objectives
This project aims to develop a bioelectrochemical system for green hydrogen production at reduced cost.
Expected results
The technology aims to overcome current density limitations, facilitating the industrial-scale deployment of microbial electrolysis cells capable of producing hydrogen at a cost up to ten times lower than conventional electrolysis methods.
Target markets
- Decarbonised hydrogen production
- Upgrading of effluents from wastewater treatment plants or fermenters
Type of transfert planned
Scale-up with CRITT GPTE, the SOLIDIA platform, and research collaborations with private partners:
- industrial stakeholders in the sanitation sector
- industrial stakeholders in the energy production sector
Involved components
- UMR 5503 LGC
- UMR 792 TBI