Technical Fibre Products

TFP has developed a reputation as a leading manufacturer of wet laid, non-woven fibrous substrates utilising continuous process techniques. In May 2000 Johnson Matthey, a world leader in catalysts and catalysed components concluded exclusive development and supply agreements with TFP for the key substrate to be used in Johnson Matthey's Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA). The MEA forms the heart of the PEM fuel cell. This collaboration is an important step in the development of high volume manufacturing of these components. TFP will develop and supply carbon fibre substrates onto which anode and cathode catalyst materials will be deposited by Johnson Matthey using their specialist expertise with precious metals.

The MEA comprises a polymer membrane sandwiched between the anode and the cathode. Under these agreements Johnson Matthey will market all of the new products for fuel cells that result from collaboration.

Both TFP and Johnson Matthey each retain their own specific intellectual properties under the agreements.

TFP is also supplying materials which are used in Phosphoric Acid fuel cells. The first UK application of this type utilising TFP materials was commissioned in 2000 at the public swimming pool in Woking, Surrey.

TFP's early successful involvement with key players in the fuel cell market underlines TFP's strong capabilities and approach to customer service. A significant, growing profit stream from fuel cells will emerge from the middle of this decade. This profit stream will sit alongside those from other products and markets which TFP is currently developing.

Gas diffusion substrate production at Technical Fibre Products (Photograph courtesy of Technical Fibre Products)