“At CEDENNA, we have a great opportunity to create something in Chile that adds value to currently unexploited minerals, such as those present in tailings. I am delighted with the visit. We were able to see the laboratories and what is concretely done there. Here we are talking about applied research, and that is not very common in Chile,” said Erwin Plett, founder and manager of Lowcarbon Chile and Director of H2 Chile, the Chilean Hydrogen Association, during his recent visit to the Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CEDENNA).
Plett toured the facilities exploring collaboration opportunities, particularly interested in manufacturing components for electrolyzers. This process requires the use of rare earths and valuable elements such as platinum group metals. During his stay, he met with the center’s researchers to discuss how nanotechnology can optimize the use of these expensive materials, ensuring efficiency and sustainability in production.
“Our focus is on manufacturing critical parts and components for electrolyzers using rare earths. Due to their high cost, it is crucial to explore how nanotechnology can allow us to use the exact amount needed and assess whether Chile has sufficient reserves of platinum group metals to replace platinum. I see an excellent opportunity to work together on this front,” added Plett.
Plett’s visit emphasizes CEDENNA’s commitment to innovation and cross-sector collaboration, opening new avenues for joint projects that advance research and promote sustainable solutions to global challenges.
Watch the video at the following link!
