Palladium is becoming a key element for the transition to green energy. Experts predict that this metal will play an important role in the development of hydrogen energy, solar panels and next-generation batteries.
Although today 84% of palladium is used in automotive catalysts, the metal’s future lies in innovation. The Palladium Technology Center develops clean technology solutions that will help accelerate the decarbonization of the economy.
The catalytic properties of palladium open up unique opportunities for hydrogen energy. The metal is used to create efficient catalysts for fuel cells and electrolyzers. New developments can reduce the cost of hydrogen production and improve system safety.
In solar energy, palladium helps improve the efficiency of solar cells. Combined use with selenium can increase the efficiency of solar panels by 2-3%. This is especially important with diffuse lighting, which makes solar energy more stable.
Particular prospects are opening up in the creation of lithium-sulfur batteries. Palladium catalysts significantly increase battery life and energy capacity. New batteries will be able to triple the range of electric vehicles.
An important advantage of palladium is its environmental friendliness. More than 30% of the metal on the market is recycled material. Low annual consumption (less than 300 tons) makes palladium a sustainable resource for the green transformation.
New palladium-based technologies are already undergoing industrial testing and are preparing for commercial introduction. Experts are confident that this metal will become an important element in the transition to clean energy and help reduce its environmental impact.
The material was prepared with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science as part of the Decade of Science and Technology.
Source: trends.rbc.ru
