
Scientists discover record-breaking hydrogen storage materials for use in fuel c
Date: Monday, November 12, 2007 @ 20:13:39 UTC Topic: Science
Scientists at the University of Virginia have discovered a new class of
hydrogen storage materials that could make the storage and
transportation of energy much more efficient — and affordable — through
higher-performing hydrogen fuel cells.
Bellave S. Shivaram and Adam
B. Phillips, the U.Va. physicists who invented the new materials, will
present their finding today at the International Symposium on Materials
Issues in a Hydrogen Economy at the Omni Hotel in Richmond, Va.
“In terms of hydrogen absorption, these materials could prove a
world record,” Phillips said. “Most materials today absorb only 7 to 8
percent of hydrogen by weight, and only at cryogenic [extremely low]
temperatures. Our materials absorb hydrogen up to 14 percent by weight
at room temperature. By absorbing twice as much hydrogen, the new
materials could help make the dream of a hydrogen economy come true.”
In the quest for alternative fuels, U.Va.’s new materials
potentially could provide a highly affordable solution to energy
storage and transportation problems with a wide variety of
applications. They absorb a much higher percentage of hydrogen than
predecessor materials while exhibiting faster kinetics at room
temperature and much lower pressures, and are inexpensive and simple to
produce.
“These materials are the next
generation in hydrogen fuel storage materials, unlike any others we
have seen before,” Shivaram said. “They have passed every litmus test
that we have performed, and we believe they have the potential to have
a large impact.”
The inventors believe the novel materials will translate to the
marketplace and are working with the U.Va. Patent Foundation to patent
their discovery.
“The U.Va. Patent Foundation is very excited to be working with a
material that one day may be used by millions in everyday life,” said
Chris Harris, senior licensing manager for the U.Va. Patent Foundation.
“Dr. Phillips and Dr. Shivaram have made an incredible breakthrough in
the area of hydrogen absorption.”
Source: University of Virginia Via: http://www.physorg.com/news114098168.html
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