Document k9kRz0BGVZXZxEkxzVk2L0OR0

PFAS Value Chain for PEM Electrolysis - Non-confidential information - Summary: This report describes the PFAS material category related value chain as applicable to PEM Electrolysis. Included is a clear delineation of scope regarding Linde and value chain partners. While Linde takes care for its own value chain scope which is the construction and operating stage via its Engineering Materials and Chemical Services departments, for both upstream and downstream Linde relies on ESG conform acting partner. This includes above all closed-loop fabrication of PEM membranes and its precursors and a closed loop recycling. Contents 1 PEM Electrolysis Value Chain .......................................................................................................................... 2 2 Scope split ....................................................................................................................................................... 2 2.1 The front-end stages .............................................................................................................................. 2 2.2 Linde scope ............................................................................................................................................ 3 2.3 The end-of-life stage .............................................................................................................................. 3 1 PEM Electrolysis Value Chain The PEM value chain is divided in several sub-steps, see figure 1: Precursor material production Membrane production Stack assembly PEM electrolysis plant erection PEM electrolysis plant operation End of Life material reuse or incineration Figure 1 Simplified value chain for PFAS materials used in PEM Electrolyzer stacks All the steps must be taken into consideration for potential emissions. A detailed evaluation of potential emission sources has been performed. Highest potential for emissions in the case of PEM electrolysis is related to the front-end material production of the Fluoropolymers - especially the Perfluorosulfonated Ionomer, which is essential for PEM membrane assemble (s. for details answer 6). In this step lower molecular weight, water-soluble PFAS components are today more or less unavoidable. 2 Scope split 2.1 The front-end stages Linde is aware that in the co-polymerisation polymerization aids can be in use, which are of special concern or already under ban as perfluoro octanoic acid (PFOA). Accordingly, for this value chain front-end Linde is dependent of its suppliers. The supply system will be audited based on a detailed audit plan including questions related to gaseous, liquid and solid waste streams and material recycling possibilities. Baseline for the audit process is that all regulatory requirement, best practice related to technology and continuous improvement measures are in place. For details see management plan, which is attached separately. There is no independent public domain data available at Linde for these stages. All data is with the suppliers and a reference is made at that point to their specific data contribution (e.g., for an exemplary value chain: Chemours, Gore, ITM Power). 2.2 Linde scope Linde scope in the value chain is related to PEM-Electrolysis T-EPC (Technology based Engineering Procurement and Construction) of plants ( Linde Engineering) and Operation ( Linde Gas). A detailed, confidential analysis has been prepared and is attached under confidentiality rules in the PFAS consultation process, reference to PEMEL Process description. 2.3 The end-of-life stage "End of Life" logistics and treatment of the PEM electrolysis membrane assembly is realized via 3rd party, again. Stack suppliers with a return system are preferred -especially in future when offering recycle concepts. For disposal dedicated companies with specific noble metal recovery and incineration systems will be used. Approach is as described for the front end via an auditing process (for details see answer 3). In any case a separate waste collection will be used for separate collection of PFAS containing waste. Due to the industrial environment of the gas industry and the experience in handling of waste stream - including hazardous waste - a 100% coverage can be guaranteed.