About IREC
The Fundació Institut de Recerca en Energia de Catalunya (IREC) is a leading research center dedicated to advancing the energy transition with a focus on sustainable, affordable, and clean energy. IREC conducts intensive research programs aimed at developing new technologies and transforming existing energy models across three main sectors: Energy and Environment, Smart Energy Management, and Energy Storage. Committed to translating research outputs into practical products for industry and the public, the specific group involved in HySPRINT has pioneered the digitalisation of ceramic processing, holding wide experience in the 3D printing of functional ceramics and inkjet printing for Solid Oxide Electrolysers (SOECs).
Role in the Project
Within the HySPRINT project, IREC brings its consolidated expertise in inkjet printing and the advanced characterisation of SOECs – including the electrochemical testing of cells and stacks. IREC is focusing on improving the inkjet printing technique to produce the $O_2$-electrode and evaluating thin film solutions to enhance both cell performance and durability. Working alongside project partners, IREC will collaborate with EUT on the barrier layer, partner with TOR to select suitable inks, and validate their manufacturing technique in a relevant environment (MRL5), actively addressing current limitations to make the process less environmentally impactful and more cost-effective.