Sparc Technologies Limited (ASX: $SPN) has announced the successful testing of its second generation prototype photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) reactor at the CSIRO Energy Centre in Newcastle, New South Wales. The scalable reactor design demonstrated performance improvements over the first generation prototype, with hydrogen gas production rates aligning closely with laboratory testing results. The joint venture, Sparc Hydrogen, is a collaboration between the University of Adelaide, Fortescue, and Sparc Technologies.
Sparc Technologies Managing Director, Mr. Nick O'Loughlin, expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the Sparc Hydrogen team, highlighting the significant performance and design improvements demonstrated through the second generation reactor. He emphasized the validation of laboratory testing under concentrated solar simulation and the potential of PWS as an alternative to electrolysis for low-cost green hydrogen production. Mr. O'Loughlin also acknowledged the market demand for alternative green hydrogen production technologies amidst global challenges faced by electrolysis projects.
The successful testing of the second generation prototype PWS reactor marks a significant milestone for Sparc Technologies, positioning them closer to a pilot plant investment decision. The company's ambitions to develop a first-of-its-kind facility demonstrating the combination of photocatalytic water splitting with concentrated solar in an end-to-end green hydrogen production system reflect their commitment to disruptive and sustainable technology. Sparc's progress in developing relationships with leading photocatalyst suppliers and the ongoing work on the pilot plant further underscore their dedication to advancing green hydrogen technology. With the successful completion of Stage 1 development milestones and the support from Australia's Economic Accelerator grant program, Sparc Technologies is well-positioned to continue driving innovation in the green hydrogen sector.