Smoltek Hydrogen highlights global iridium shortage: “Every atom counts”
Smoltek Hydrogen recently participated in the Hydrogen Technology World Expo 2025 in Hamburg, Germany – the world’s largest industry event for innovation in hydrogen and electrolysis technology. Ellinor Ehrnberg, President of Smoltek Hydrogen, was invited to a panel discussion on the topic “Overcoming the Key Obstacles in Electrolyzer Expansion”
October 30, 2025
In her speech, Ellinor Ehrnberg highlighted one of the most crucial challenges for the hydrogen industry today – the global shortage of iridium.
Ellinor Ehrnberg, President of Smoltek Hydrogen, said:
At the very heart of a PEM electrolyzer lies iridium – and there is currently no substitute.
“Only 7–9 tons are mined globally each year, and production cannot be increased. Unless we drastically reduce the amount used in hydrogen production, the iridium shortage will stop the scale-up of green hydrogen before it even starts,”
Ellinor also presented Smoltek’s nanotechnology-based solution for large-scale and fossil-free hydrogen production that enables smaller and more cost-effective electrolyzers.
Ellinor Ehrnberg added,
Scaling green hydrogen isn’t just about producing more—it’s about producing smarter.
“We need to rethink the materials, the manufacturing, and even the mindsets that built yesterday’s industry. Every atom count,”
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Smoltek Hydrogen highlights global iridium shortage: “Every atom counts”, source
