Technology group Bosch is increasing its involvement in water treatment for green hydrogen. Alongside its work on reverse osmosis, Bosch is developing new plants in Renningen, Stuttgart-Feuerbach and Budweis that are especially robust and low in maintenance and are particularly suitable for remote areas and offshore locations.

These plants remove minerals from the water using thermal and electrochemical processes. It is claimed that this treatment process, which does not use any filter media, allows operators to relinquish the use of chemicals entirely. The first external pilot projects are due to start this year. Market launch for the plants is scheduled for 2024.

Water treatment is the essential first link in the hydrogen value chain since electrolyzers generally need highly purified water. The new technology will enable far-flung areas to have access to economical and environmentally sound water treatment, explained Stefan Hartung, board chairman at Bosch.