On March 14, 2025, Michelin, CNRS, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble INP – UGA, and Savoie Mont Blanc University officially launched Alcal’Hylab, a new joint research laboratory dedicated to advancing sustainable green hydrogen production. Over the next four years, researchers will focus on developing next-generation electrolysis materials to enable large-scale, low-carbon hydrogen production using water.
This initiative marks the third hydrogen-focused LabCom between Michelin and CNRS, reinforcing their long-term partnership in green energy research.
The Challenge: Scaling Up Sustainable Hydrogen Production
Currently, most hydrogen production relies on fossil fuels, with grey and black hydrogen accounting for the majority of global supply. These methods contribute over 2% of global CO₂ emissions. Although cleaner alternatives exist, such as blue hydrogen (with CO₂ capture) and green hydrogen (powered by renewables), large-scale, cost-effective industrial production remains a challenge.
Hydrogen production through water electrolysis offers a promising solution, but existing technologies each come with limitations:
- Alkaline Water Electrolysis (AWE): Uses abundant non-noble metals (e.g., nickel, iron) but has lower efficiency and slower production speeds.
- Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolysis (PEMWE): Offers higher efficiency and purity, but relies on scarce and expensive materials (e.g., platinum, iridium) and produces pollutants from membrane components.
AEMWE: The Future of Green Hydrogen Electrolysis
To overcome these challenges, Alcal’Hylab researchers aim to develop Anion-Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis (AEMWE)—a technology that combines the best attributes of AWE and PEMWE. This next-generation electrolysis method will:
✅ Use earth-abundant metals (e.g., nickel) instead of rare and costly catalysts.
✅ Incorporate an anion-exchange polymer membrane, eliminating toxic byproducts.
✅ Achieve higher hydrogen production efficiency while maintaining low-carbon impact.
A Strategic Collaboration for Green Energy Innovation
Michelin has been investing in hydrogen research for over 20 years, recognizing its potential to drive mobility decarbonization and industrial transformation. This new joint laboratory builds on Michelin’s existing partnerships with CNRS and aligns with France’s long-term hydrogen strategy.
🔹 Jacques Maddaluno, Director of CNRS Chemistry:
“Alcal’Hylab is a testament to our strong collaboration with Michelin. This partnership will accelerate hydrogen innovation, enhancing both our research expertise and industrial applications.”
🔹 Christophe Moriceau, VP of Advanced Research at Michelin:
“Hydrogen is a key pillar of Michelin’s energy transition strategy. This joint lab will help us develop the materials and processes needed for large-scale, sustainable hydrogen production.”
🔹 Yassine Lakhnech, President of Grenoble Alpes University:
“This initiative exemplifies the strength of our scientific and industrial ecosystem, bringing together researchers and companies to pioneer sustainable energy solutions.”
🔹 Vivien Quéma, General Administrator of Grenoble INP – UGA:
“With 40% of the research team coming from Grenoble INP – UGA, this project strengthens our commitment to innovation in hydrogen technology.”
🔹 Philippe Briand, President of Savoie Mont Blanc University:
“Developing advanced materials for AEMWE electrolyzers aligns with our mission to foster innovation for a more sustainable energy future.”
A Major Step Toward Industrial-Scale Green Hydrogen
By combining expertise in materials science, electrochemistry, and industrial engineering, Alcal’Hylab will accelerate the transition to cost-effective green hydrogen. The research outcomes will support Michelin’s sustainability goals, contribute to Europe’s hydrogen economy, and help create a cleaner, low-carbon future.
