TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd. has announced the development of HPM-L111, the world's first palladium hydrogen permeable membrane capable of high performance at low temperatures, around 100°C. This innovation promises to enhance hydrogen purification efficiency while reducing energy consumption, supporting the growth of a next-generation hydrogen ecosystem globally.
Sample shipments of HPM-L111 are set to commence on or after March 5, 2026, with a production capacity of approximately 100 samples per month. The company plans to present its findings at The Japan Institute of Metals and Materials' 2026 Spring Meeting, held at Chiba Institute of Technology from March 11 to 13, and showcase the product at the H2 & FC EXPO Int’l Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo in Tokyo from March 17 to 19.
The palladium hydrogen permeable membrane is crafted from a palladium alloy, known for its ability to absorb and permeate hydrogen, making it ideal for high-purity hydrogen separation and purification. Traditionally, such membranes required high temperatures of at least 300°C for effective hydrogen permeation. TANAKA's breakthrough involves a special surface treatment that allows the membrane to perform efficiently at or below 100°C.
The existing PdCu40 alloy, with 60% palladium and 40% copper, offered high hydrogen permeation but necessitated operation at around 400°C, leading to increased costs due to the need for additional heating facilities. The development of HPM-L111 addresses these issues by employing a proprietary surface treatment that creates minute jagged structures on the membrane, enhancing its specific surface area and hydrogen penetration speed at lower temperatures.
HPM-L111's ability to operate at lower temperatures is expected to contribute to the advancement of hydrogen sensors, fuel cells, and vacuum equipment by improving detection accuracy and enabling hydrogen removal while maintaining a low operating temperature. This innovation also aligns with efforts toward carbon neutrality by reducing the energy required for heating, as the previous necessity for temperatures of at least 300°C is eliminated.
As the hydrogen industry evolves, the demand for efficient hydrogen permeation at lower temperatures increases. TANAKA's HPM-L111 is poised to support this transition, paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient hydrogen society.
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