Parker and IMM double down on hydrogen fuel cell filtration innovation

Parker Hannifin and the Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems (IMM) have renewed their partnership on air filtering technologies for hydrogen fuel cells.

In the new phase of the partnership, Parker and IMM plan to push the boundaries of current filtration technologies to improve the efficiency and durability of fuel cells.

Hoping to build on the progress of the partnership started in October 2022, subsequently leading to the development of a test rig, the pair plan to further explore air absorption technology for fuel cell humidification applications.

Read more: Parker Hannifin reaches fuel cell technology milestone with new testing rig

For fuel cells to function effectively, the firms say air entering them must be free of contaminants.

Their joint test rig allows them to test the effectiveness of filters used in fuel cells in removing harmful gases such as NOx, SOx, ammonia and other compounds.

“This improvement is essential for enhancing the efficiency and lifespan of fuel cells, making them a more viable and widespread solution for reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels,” they said.

Parker and IMM have said the renewed partnership will focus on the development and implementation of new specialised air filter test rigs; continued efficiency evaluations of fuel cell humidifiers; and understanding the effects of humidifier fibre dimensions and permeability.

With the partnership already providing “invaluable insights,” Burkhard Hartmann, R&D Officer at Parker’s Engine Mobile Filtration Europe (EMFE) Division, said by simulating real-world conditions, the company will be able to optimise its filter technology.