KIT Spin-off Photreon Develops Direct Solar Water Splitting Technology for Hydrogen Production

Photreon, a spin-off from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), has developed photoreactor panels designed to simplify green hydrogen production by converting sunlight and water directly into hydrogen without requiring electrolyzers or electrical power connections.

The technology is based on photocatalysis, a process where light triggers a chemical reaction directly. Light-sensitive materials in the panel absorb solar energy, exciting electrons that split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. According to co-founder Maren Cordts, this approach "replaces photovoltaics and electrolyzers with our photoreactor panel," reducing system complexity and costs compared to traditional methods.

The modular panel design is optimized for light transport, chemical reaction efficiency, and product removal. KIT has filed a patent application for the technology. The panels are designed for mass production using standard processes and low-cost materials, suitable for both small-scale rooftop installations and larger solar hydrogen farm applications.

Photreon's technology targets applications in regions without grid or hydrogen infrastructure connections, including medium-sized industrial facilities such as specialty chemicals, food production, and metalworking operations, as well as large-scale solar projects in sunny regions.

The company will present its technology at Hannover Messe 2026 (April 20-24) at the KIT booth in Hall 11, Booth B06.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Central. Read the full article →