FuelCellsWorks

A team of SRNL researchers is studying how the relationships between blue-green algae and its environment, particularly nutrients and other bacteria, affect its ability to produce hydrogen that could be collected and used for the nation’s energy needs.  Results indicate that a carbon “boost” may increase the  hydrogen production capacity of many strains.

One of the keys to making a hydrogen-powered future feasible is developing environmentally and economically sound methods of producing large quantities of hydrogen.  Biological hydrogen production by cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, is a highly attractive option because:

* It uses a renewable resource requiring only water, sunlight, air, and trace mineral salts.
* It does not use or produce hazardous materials.
* It is carbon-neutral or even carbon–negative process (absorbing carbon, rather than producing it).

“It is known that many thousands, or even millions, of naturally occurring bacteria species have the ability to use sunlight to produce hydrogen,” says Chris Yeager, one of the researchers on the project, “but only a handful of strains have been studied.”  From a biotechnological perspective, he says it makes sense to explore (and potentially harness) the untapped diversity of H2-producing capabilities that have been naturally evolving for billions of years.

To advance the utility of these microorganisms for energy production, SRNL is conducting studies to 1) assess the overall physiological effects that bacterial associates and environmental factors have on cultures of hydrogen-producing cyanobacteria, and 2) characterize the combined effect of glucose and light on hydrogen-producing cyanobacteria.

Cyanobacteria are almost always closely associated with other bacteria. Indeed, many strains of cyanobacteria cannot be isolated and grown without their bacterial associates.  Still, very little detail is known about the interactions between the cyanobacteria and their commonly associated bacteria, especially how those interactions could affect the ability to produce hydrogen.  SRNL screened ~75 bacteria for their ability to enhance or inhibit cyanobacteial growth, and found that several impart a slight growth advantage.

To learn more about the effect of light and carbon source on hydrogen production, SRNL examined 10-12 diverse cyanobacterial strains and found that glucose stimulated hydrogen production rates and yield in the majority of strains – as much as a 40-fold increase in yields in some strains. Other carbon sources (or “carbon boosts”) were also found to increase cyanobacterial hydrogen production. These results support the idea that organic rich waste streams from certain industrial processes could be used to stimulate photobiological hydrogen production.

In many strains, glucose-dependent hydrogen production rates and yield were not greatly stimulated by increases in light intensity. This research counters the commonly held belief that the techno-economic feasibility of cyanobacterial hydrogen production depends solely on light conversion efficiency, and points toward the utilization of “carbon boosts” to increase production.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Researchers have developed a critical part of a hydrogen storage system for cars that makes it possible to fill up a vehicle’s fuel tank within five minutes with enough hydrogen to drive 300 miles.

The system uses a fine powder called metal hydride to absorb hydrogen gas. The researchers have created the system’s heat exchanger, which circulates coolant through tubes and uses fins to remove heat generated as the hydrogen is absorbed by the powder.

The heat exchanger is critical because the system stops absorbing hydrogen effectively if it overheats, said Issam Mudawar, a professor of mechanical engineering who is leading the research.

“The hydride produces an enormous amount of heat,” Mudawar said. “It would take a minimum of 40 minutes to fill the tank without cooling, and that would be entirely impractical.”

Researchers envision a system that would enable motorists to fill their car with hydrogen within a few minutes. The hydrogen would then be used to power a fuel cell to generate electricity to drive an electric motor.

The research, funded by General Motors Corp. and directed by GM researchers Darsh Kumar, Michael Herrmann and Abbas Nazri, is based at the Hydrogen Systems Laboratory at Purdue’s Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories. In February, the team applied for three provisional patents related to this technology.

“The idea is to have a system that fills the tank and at the same time uses accessory connectors that supply coolant to extract the heat,” said Mudawar, who is working with mechanical engineering graduate student Milan Visaria and Timothée Pourpoint, a research assistant professor of aeronautics and astronautics and manager of the Hydrogen Systems Laboratory. “This presented an engineering challenge because we had to figure out how to fill the fuel vessel with hydrogen quickly while also removing the heat efficiently. The problem is, nobody had ever designed this type of heat exchanger before. It’s a whole new animal that we designed from scratch.”

The metal hydride is contained in compartments inside the storage “pressure vessel.” Hydrogen gas is pumped into the vessel at high pressure and absorbed by the powder.

“This process is reversible, meaning the hydrogen gas may be released from the metal hydride by decreasing the pressure in the storage vessel,” Mudawar said. “The heat exchanger is fitted inside the hydrogen storage pressure vessel. Due to space constraints, it is essential that the heat exchanger occupy the least volume to maximize room for hydrogen storage.”

Conventional automotive coolant flows through a U-shaped tube traversing the length of the pressure vessel and heat exchanger. The heat exchanger, which is made mostly of aluminum, contains a network of thin fins that provide an efficient cooling path between the metal hydride and the coolant.

“This milestone paves the way for practical on-board hydrogen storage systems that can be charged multiple times in much the same way a gasoline tank is charged today,” said Kumar, a researcher at GM’s Chemical & Environmental Sciences Laboratory and the GM R&D Center in Warren, Mich. “As newer and better metal hydrides are developed by research teams worldwide, the heat exchanger design will provide a ready solution for the automobile industry.”

The researchers have developed the system over the past two years. Because metal hydride reacts readily with both air and moisture, the system must be assembled in an airtight chamber, Pourpoint said.

Research activities at the hydrogen laboratory involve faculty members from the schools of aeronautics and astronautics, mechanical engineering, and electrical and computer engineering.

In response to economic climate, Honda cancels participation in IAA 2009, while strengthening environment and customer focused activities.

* New Fuel Cell research in Europe
* More Hybrid vehicles
* New Honda Academy to strengthen Quality and Customer Service

Honda has announced that it will not participate in IAA, Internationale Automobil Ausstellung, known as Frankfurt motor show, this year. Due to the unprecedented market downturn, Honda has decided not to participate in the Frankfurt motor show this year.

As seen in the withdrawal from Formula One, Honda is trying to reduce every possible cost in various areas including manufacturing, sales and marketing activities to strengthen its business constitution to overcome the current tough business climate.

During the 4-month shutdown to adjust the inventory balance, Honda’s UK car manufacturing facility in Swindon is taking full advantage of this production suspension to refurbish its plants. This time is also being used to prepare for the smooth introduction of Jazz into the Swindon factory planned for autumn this year.

Honda is the world’s biggest engine manufacturer with 24 million engine powered products sold in 2008 in the areas of automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment, and is acting to swiftly respond to the unprecedented global situation. While vigorously undertaking every possible cost reduction measure, Honda is also focusing on research and production of environmentally responsible products.

The Insight Hybrid will be on sale in Germany from April18th, this all-new hybrid car has already had more than 18.000 customer orders in Japan just in the first month, more than three times its monthly sales target in Japan. To further enhance its low environmental impact offering, Honda will bring to market a sporty Hybrid based on the CR-Z Concept in 2010 which will be followed by a Jazz Hybrid.

During the autumn 2009 Honda will begin a new research project of Fuel Cell technologies in Germany. This involves permanent deployment of FCX Clarity in Europe, Honda’s cutting edge hydrogen fuelled, zero emission vehicle, which is already leased to customers in the USA and Japan. Honda R&D Europe (Deutschland) GmbH in Offenbach will use the FCX Clarity for long-term research of Fuel Cell technology and Hydrogen refuelling conformity in European conditions.

Honda will divert the resources for environmentally responsible technology to win the race for Zero Emissions.

Furthermore, Honda will also place even greater emphasis on customer service in 2009. On March 23rd the ground breaking ceremony for the new Honda Academy for Europe at Erlensee near Hanau in Germany took place. This €15m project will give even greater training to Honda and dealer’s staff to assist them in exceeding customer’s expectations in the future.

Infusion of Capital and Expansion of Leadership Team Position LSI to Revolutionize Power for Consumer Electronic Devices

WILMINGTON, Mass. – Lilliputian Systems, Inc., developer of the world’s first Personal Power(TM) solution for consumer electronic (CE) devices, today  announced the closing of an additional $28M in financing, the addition of Ray Stata to its Board of Directors and the appointment of Michael Umana as EVP and CFO

Lilliputian Systems announced that it has secured an additional $28 million in venture funding. Joining its current investors, which include Kleiner Perkins Caufield Byers of Menlo Park, CA , Atlas Venture of Waltham MA , Fairhaven Capital of Cambridge, MA  and Rockport Capital of Boston, MA , are two new investors:  Stata Venture Partners of Needham, MA and Altira Group LLC of Denver, CO .

In conjunction with the financing, Mr. Ray Stata, the co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Analog Devices, Inc. (www.analog.com), a Fortune 1000 and S&P 500 company will join Lilliputian’s Board of Directors effective immediately. Stata Venture Partners is a private equity fund that invests in early stage new business opportunities around the world.  Mr. Stata is Founder and Principal of the firm and has been active in the high technology industry and public service for over 20 years including work with the Massachusetts High Technology Council and The Council on Competitiveness.  Among his numerous awards include election to both the National Academy of Engineering and American Academy of Arts and Sciences, as well as being a recipient of the IEEE Founder’s Medal.

“We could not be more pleased to have Ray join our board,” said Ken Lazarus, CEO of Lilliputian Systems. “His knowledge, insight, and contacts — not to mention his vast experience in bringing MEMS products to market, will help propel Lilliputian Systems as a commercial force in the CE industry.”

“Stata Venture Partners’ financial support and my personal commitment to join the board serve as strong endorsement of Lilliputian’s technology and business model,” said Mr. Stata. “This funding will help ensure the timely commercial launch of Lilliputian’s products.”

Altira Group is committed to building a future of efficient, sustainable energy by pioneering full-spectrum investments in the energy sector.  Hull McKinnon, Principal at Altira, will also join Lilliputian’s Board of Directors. “Hull’s presence further validates the impact that Lilliputian’s products will have in providing a clean tech solution for today’s CE devices,” said Mouli Ramani, Vice President of Business Development at Lilliputian Systems. “The Altira Group recognizes that our products will dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of literally billions of devices worldwide.”

Lilliputian also announced the appointment of Michael Umana as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial and Administration Officer. Mr. Umana has held numerous senior positions in both public and private companies and brings a wealth of experience to Lilliputian. Prior to joining the company, Mr. Umana served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the LoJack Corporation. “The addition of Mike to our senior management team will help position Lilliputian for our product launch,” said Lazarus. “Mike’s deep knowledge and broad experience will be invaluable as Lilliputian continues to add partners and customers around the world.”

About Lilliputian Systems

Lilliputian Systems, Inc. has developed the world’s first Personal Power(TM) solution for Consumer Electronics (CE) devices, a revolutionary family of products targeted at the $50 billion portable power market. The Company’s breakthrough solution delivers the only viable small form-factor battery replacement that provides the enormous run-time improvements demanded by today’s CE devices. Lilliputian’s patented Silicon Power Cell(TM) technology is based on highly-efficient and proven solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) wafer fabrication methods, and is fueled by recyclable high energy butane cartridges. The technology is reliable, FAA approved and environmentally friendly. Lilliputian’s solution enables longer run-time by providing a 5-10 improvement in volumetric energy density and 20-40X improvement in gravimetric energy density at a fraction of the cost. The Company’s elegantly designed solution both complements today’s devices and can seamlessly integrate into future devices — all while ensuring the consumer enjoys an essentially infinite supply of Personal Power(TM) for their CE devices.  For more information, visit www.lilliputiansystemsinc.com.

National Hydrogen Association to recognize Friedland for leadership in hydrogen technology

Wallingford, CT–Proton Energy Systems announced today that company president and CEO Robert Friedland is one of three recipients of the distinguished National Hydrogen Association’s (NHA) 2009 Award for Meritorious Service.  The award is presented annually by the NHA to individuals for exceptional leadership and personal contribution to the advancement of hydrogen technologies.

“Mr. Friedland’s leadership at Proton Energy Systems and his continued dedication to the development and promotion of hydrogen technology is exemplary,” said NHA President Jeffrey A. Serfass.  “Mr. Friedland’s remarkable record of achievement over the years cannot come at a more critical moment, as energy security and green energy are major issues confronting our nation.  I cannot think of a more worthy recipient for this award.”

Friedland, who co-founded Proton Energy in 1996, will receive the award on Thursday, April 2, 2009 at an awards ceremony during the industry’s largest hydrogen conference in Columbia, South Carolina. In addition to his leadership at Proton Energy, Friedland is being recognized specifically for: his dedicated and outstanding service as chair of the NHA’s Financial Compliance Committee; his work with NHA staff to simplify financial recordkeeping and reports; providing stronger oversight of the association’s financial picture, which resulted in appropriate actions taken for financial surpluses instead of deficits; and finally, for his ability to provide a solid business model for smaller business organizations to use and those with emerging market technologies.

“I am honored to accept this National Hydrogen Association award on behalf of Proton Energy Systems,” said Friedland.  “Proton’s mission has always been to develop hydrogen technology in creative and practical ways that can benefit our customers and advance green energy possibilities and potential throughout the globe.”

Friedland has decades of experience with hydrogen technology. He has authored and presented major papers in the field and is co-inventor on three U.S. Patents in the area of water electrolysis.  Friedland earned a BS degree in mechanical engineering from Syracuse University and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Proton Energy Systems has been awarded several major contracts in recent months, including a partnership with Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction to supply Proton’s advanced HOGEN hydrogen generators for a power plant that provides electricity to Qatalum, the world’s largest aluminum smelting plant in Qatar.  Proton Energy’s commitment to innovation has also been recognized with several recent military projects, including a $2.62 million contract with the U.S. Army’s Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to develop a Regenerative Fuel Cell System, and a $1.8 million contract with the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) to create an advanced fueling system capable of sustaining a military fleet of hydrogen-powered vehicles

About Proton Energy Systems

Proton Energy Systems designs and manufactures proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrochemical systems to make hydrogen from water in a zero pollution process producing safe, pure, reliable onsite hydrogen to meet today’s global hydrogen requirements.  Proton Energy Systems has been developing and manufacturing world-class electrolysis systems since 1996, with more than 1200 units deployed world-wide, on every continent.  With a reputation for building robust, reliable, and safe systems, federal, state, and commercial partners repeatedly seek the creative solutions that Proton Energy Systems has proven it is capable of delivering.  For more information, visit www.ProtonEnergy.com .

BRUNNTHAL, Germany & MUNICH – Concern about the environment is universal, but system performance comes first. This Earth Day, SFC Smart Fuel Cell, leading supplier of fuel cell products for mobile and off-grid power applications, points out that fuel cells, operating in a hybrid system with batteries and solar power systems, can power a range of leisure and industrial equipment in any weather conditions.

Hybrid fuel cell system advantages:

– Produces only carbon dioxide and water vapour in amounts comparable to a child’s breath

– Provides a clean and quiet alternative to fuel-based generators

– Keeps solar power systems operating reliably even in bad weather

– Assures continuous, virtually maintenance-free energy to battery-powered systems, avoiding battery replacement

– Includes an integrated charge control that constantly monitors the charge level of the battery and automatically recharges it when needed

Fuel cells are recognized as a clean, silent and efficient energy source for powering a wide variety of applications off the grid. Applications include motor home and marine equipment, traffic-control equipment and monitoring devices to protect property. SFC has sold more than 12,000 direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) and is a global leader in providing fuel cells for security, surveillance and monitoring applications.

For more information: Dr. Peter Podesser, CEO of Smart Fuel Cell, is available to talk about applications for hybrid fuel cell systems. Please contact Jaclyn Petros, (617) 638-0022 or petrosj@loomisgroup.com for more information.

About SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG

SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG (www.sfc.com) is market leader in fuel cell technologies for mobile and off-grid power applications serving the leisure, industrial and defense markets. As one of Germany’s technology pioneers, SFC has won numerous innovation awards. SFC has alliances with leading companies in a wide range of industries. Unlike most other fuel cell manufacturers, who are in the research and development phase or run subsidized demonstration projects, SFC has shipped more than 12,000 fully commercial products to industrial and private end users for more than four years, and has created a convenient fuel cartridge supply infrastructure. SFC is DIN ISO 9001:2000 certified. SFC is based in Brunnthal, Germany, and has a U.S. sales and technical service office in Atlanta.

Lines of hydrogen fuel cell-powered materials handling equipment and cavernous spaces greet visitors to Central Grocers Inc’s new distribution center in a Joliet business park. Approximately 2,000 people attended a 29 March grand opening ceremony with the opportunity to see the equipment and tour the corporate headquarters, freezer/cooler space and ambient warehouse.

“All the trucks are delivered and are in operation,” says Kal Anglewicz, president of dealership Yale Equipment & Services LLC of Rosemont, Illinois. Central Grocers purchased 219 fuel cell-powered Yale units and is retiring 170 battery-powered forklifts through Yale Equipment.

GenDrive-brand hydrogen fuel cell power units from Plug Power Inc of Latham, New York are installed on the Yale pallet trucks, reach trucks, counterbalance stand ups and counterbalance forklifts. Air Products & Chemicals Inc of Allentown, Pennsylvania supplied a liquid hydrogen storage compression system and multiple indoor fueling dispensers.

The member-owned wholesale grocery co-operative invested about USD90 million in buying real estate, constructing a state-of-the-art 934,340 square foot (84,104 sqm) facility and purchasing infrastructure and operating equipment.

“This is a great moment not only for our company but for the Chicago area as a whole,” says Jim Denges, chief executive officer of Central Grocers.

Central Grocers had operated from a base in Franklin Park, Illinois for 52 years. The move of 35 miles (56 km) to Joliet positions the firm near the intersection of two interstate highways and improves its ability to serve more of the metropolitan Chicago area in Illinois and north western Indiana.

Local officials approved abating 50% of the site’s property taxes for five years. Also, the cooperative will receive USD3.8-million in state corporate tax credits and USD87,500 for employer training.

Former affiliates of another cooperative, Certified Grocers Inc of Hodgkins, Illinois, become members of Central Grocers in May. The enlarged organisation under the Central Grocers’ identity will employ about 500 persons and supply 225 independent businesses operating 450 stores in four states.

Eco-200T offers smaller clean power solution in economic package

Spokane, Wash.–ReliOn, the leading provider of high reliability fuel cell solutions for backup power applications, today announced a new product in its portfolio, the Eco-200T.  The Eco-200T fuel cell system is designed around ReliOn’s patented technology and provides high reliability power for smaller scale power applications.  The product is a compact complete fuel cell system housed in a 2U (3.5″ tall) rack-mountable package.  Like all of ReliOn’s fuel cell products, emissions are limited to warm air and a small amount of water, and the Eco-200T is exempt from the most stringent air quality standards, such as those set by the California Air Resources Board.  Designed to be an economical small scale backup power solution, the Eco-200T can affordably provide hundreds of hours of runtime and many years of service for critical equipment.  The product will be commercially available in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Joe Blanchard, ReliOn’s Vice President of Product Line Management commented, “The Eco-200T provides a solution for our customers with lower power applications requiring high reliability and long runtime.  For key applications including remote backhaul sites, microwave repeaters and security and sensor sites, this product provides an ideal solution that allows customers to meet their critical backup power requirements while supporting their corporate sustainability goals.”

The Eco-200T joins ReliOn’s current product line – the T-1000® and T-2000® – which provide backup power solutions between 500W and 12kW.  The company has delivered more than 2 megawatts of product at over 600 commercial customer sites in 18 countries.  While many of ReliOn’s customers are wireless telecommunication providers, the company also serves markets including wireline telecommunications, government, security, and utility communications and transportation networks.

ReliOn products can be used for backup power and site hardening in both traditional configurations and as part of a clean technology system integrated with solar and wind power.  Visit ReliOn at CTIA Wireless booth 1341 April 1-3.

About ReliOn:

ReliOn is a leader in the development and marketing of modular Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell products. The company markets commercially available fuel cell products using its patented Modular Cartridge Technology®.  ReliOn products are available domestically and internationally for commercial and industrial backup applications in the 50-Watt to 12-kilowatt range.  ReliOn fuel cells are certified to multiple safety and performance standards. www.relion-inc.com <http://www.relion-inc.com/>  .

University of South Carolina Columbia Fuel Cell Collaborative Announces Greater Columbia Fuel Cell Challenge 2009 Awards at National Hydrogen Association Conference

COLUMBIA, S.C.– The University of South Carolina – City of Columbia Fuel Cell Collaborative announced the Greater Columbia Fuel Cell Challenge 2009 Awards today at the National Hydrogen Association’s 20th Anniversary Conference, hosted in Columbia, S.C.  The Challenge, organized by the University of South Carolina, the City of Columbia, the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) and EngenuitySC, was created in 2006 as an initiative to collaborate with private sector leaders from all areas of the fuel cell industry for the unprecedented deployment of fuel cell and alternative energy technologies into multiple city, university and public applications in Columbia.

In its first two years of activity, the Challenge has gained national recognition by accelerating the commercialization of ideas and discoveries and providing a real world environment in which these technologies can be deployed.  Project investments have been made across portable, stationary power, and mobility applications, as well as for expanding programs focused on education, outreach, and the discovery process.

In 2009, the Challenge selected and awarded five projects from over 15 project submissions covering all elements of the innovation pipeline, from discovery, to development to deployment.

“The partnerships assembled under the banner of the Greater Columbia Fuel Cell Challenge are turning innovative ideas from researchers and companies across the nation into significant economic opportunities, both in the Midlands of South Carolina as well as across the state,” said Bill Mahoney, SCRA CEO.

The University of South Carolina College of Engineering & Computing received a grant to install a 5 kW proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell as part of the power source for the scoreboard of the University’s new, riverfront baseball stadium.  The project will provide real life application for demonstration purposes as well as for building out additional technology applications in Columbia’s growing fuel cell district.

Industry leaders, Logan Energy and Plug Power have jointly been awarded a Challenge investment to test and evaluate a new PEM micro-Combined Heat and Power (CHP) fuel cell under real world conditions.  An Early Customer Acceptance Test (ECAT) unit, it produces 4.5kW electrical with a variable thermal capacity of 7kW  – 25kW thermal.   The unit operaates on natural gas and employs a unique high-temperature membrane, which should allow it to integrate effectively with traditional residential and light commercial heating systems.  “Columbia’s urban environment and support for emerging clean technologies made it a natural fit for the deployment and testing this commercially viable pre-market product.  We could not be more thrilled,”  said Sam Logan, CEO of Logan Energy.

LiftOne, Hydrogenics and Air Products & Chemicals have jointly been awarded a Challenge grant to conduct one of the team’s six planned, month-long deployments with target end-users to validate the value proposition and the market requirements for fuel cell powered lift trucks.  These trials would deploy two Class One, sit-down electric forklifts with fuel cell power packs, and one mobile hydrogen fueler at selected distribution centers and manufacturing facilities within LiftOne’s three-state area of operations (VA, NC, SC).

“These deployments are intended to provide a broad group of stakeholders including facility management lift truck operators, codes and standards officials and the general public with the opportunity to experience and witness a real world fuel cell application operating in real world environments,” said Tom Dever, LiftOne project manager.  The Challenge grant provides funding for the specific trial planned for a Columbia-based manufacturing facility.  Primary funding for this project is being provided by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrogen Education Program.

Dantherm Power, Inc. is being awarded a grant to deploy fuel cell backup power units at up to three radio communications sites owned and operated by the City of Columbia.  In the first phase of the project the incumbent backup power technology would be replaced by fuel cell generators supplied by Dantherm; in follow-on phases the project team would add the capability to refill the hydrogen supply bottles for these units from solar power.  As the end user of the project’s hardware, City of Columbia employees will be active participants in site selection, equipment performance specification, safety certification, and operating and testing procedures associated with the project.

NextGenEn, Inc.,  a recent start-up company at the University of South Carolina,  has been awarded a fuel cell challenge grant to develop a comprehensive system design and early demonstration prototype solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) device for portable power applications (from 100W up to 500W) that can operate in a highly controlled environment.  The fuel cell device will be designed specifically for medical device applications. “The fuel flexibility associated with SOFC will be essential to customer adoption of this disruptive technology as it seeks to replace traditional storage batteries,” said Chad Sands, NextGenEn, Inc. CEO.   The company intends to adopt a biofuel as the primary feedstock.

“The University-based companies involved in the Challenge are evidence to the talent we have built within our research community,” said University of South Carolina President Dr. Harris Pastides.   “Our University’s top minds are working shoulder to shoulder with industry every day to tackle the global energy issue.”

“The City of Columbia is proud once again for our fuel cell district to be a test bed for innovative technology deployment,” said City of Columbia Mayor Bob Coble.  “We remain committed to being at the leading edge of sustainability and alternative energy applications.”

About the USC Columbia Fuel Cell Collaborative

The University of South Carolina – City of Columbia Fuel Cell Collaborativee was formed by the University of South Carolina, the City of Columbia, EngenuitySC and the South Carolina Research Authority to position Columbia, SC as a leader in hydrogen fuel cell innovation and technology.  Its mission is to attract private sector partners, top fuel cell scientists, entrepreneurs and innovators to the Columbia region. For more information, visit: www.fuelcellchallenge.com

About the University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina is dedicated to building the knowledge economy in South Carolina by attracting the world’s top professors, scientists, students and entrepreneurs to Columbia, SC.  Through its new Innovation district called Innovista, the University is supporting research initiatives in nanotechnology, health sciences, Future Fuels(TM), the environment, and information and knowledge technologies.  For more information, visit:   www.sc.edu

About the City of Columbia

The City of Columbia is as rich in cultural heritage and history as it is with talent and opportunity.  The City of Columbia is dedicated to the advancement of the knowledge economy in the midlands region through its partnership in the USC Columbia Fuel Cell Collaborative, its award winning technology incubator, and its commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation.  The city fully supports the creation of the first integrated fuel cell district in the country and is committed to making Columbia a business friendly environment for innovative companies.  For more information, visit: www.columbiasc.net

About EngenuitySC

EngenuitySC is an active public/private sector partnership focused on nurturing the growth of a knowledge-based economy in the Columbia, SC region.  Comprised of business and industry leaders, along with representatives from local government and academia, EngenuitySC strives to create a fertile business climate that: encourages entrepreneurship and the commercialization of ideas and technology, harnesses the research breakthroughs of higher education institutions, establishes public policy that is sensitive to the unique needs of knowledge-based companies, and promotes access to start-up investment capital.  For more information, visit: www.engenuitysc.com

About SCRA

SCRA is a global leader in applied research and commercialization services with offices in South Carolina, Ohio and in the Washington, D.C. area. SCRA collaborates to advance technology, providing technology-based solutions with assured outcomes to industry and government, with the help of research universities in SC, the US and around the world.

LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa.–Air Products (NYSE: APD), a global leader in hydrogen fueling and infrastructure, has installed its hydrogen fueling station technology at the Defense Distribution Depot Susquehanna Pennsylvania (DDSP) in New Cumberland, Pa. and today is powering an overall fleet of 40 hydrogen fuel cell powered forklifts being used in daily warehouse operations.  Air Products is the lead contractor for the two year Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) research and development demonstration pilot project.

In the pilot project, DDSP personnel will operate 20 fuel cell-powered forklifts alongside lead-acid battery forklifts, outside the scope pilot project, in daily operations.  In addition, the fueling station will be used to support an additional 20 fuel cell-powered forklifts provided by DLA.  Data to compare costs and operational characteristics will be collected and analyzed to support the development and commercialization of hydrogen fuel cell technologies for Department of Defense operations.

“We commend the DLA for taking this close look at the many positives, both operational and environmental, offered by the use of hydrogen powered forklifts.  The program at this location provides for a side-by-side comparison during routine operations of the traditional lead-acid battery technology and the advanced hydrogen fuel-cell technology.  We believe the performance of the hydrogen powered materials handling equipment will clearly demonstrate operational, economic and environmental benefits,” said Brian O’Neil, program manager for Hydrogen Energy Systems at Air Products.

“The DDSP project is the first in a series of three research and development pilots of fuel cell and associated hydrogen fueling technologies within the Defense Distribution Center,” said Leo Plonsky, DLA’s R&D program manager for hydrogen fuel cell technologies.  “Not only does this technology reduce DLA’s dependence on imported oil, it reduces greenhouse gas emission that can contribute to climate change.”

There are many advantages to using hydrogen powered forklifts and other materials handling equipment.   Hydrogen fuel cell-powered equipment needs refueling, which can be completed in minutes, only once or twice daily depending on use.   In contrast, traditional battery-powered equipment must be placed temporarily out of operation for battery replacement and required battery recharging approximately every four to six hours.   Hydrogen fuel cell-powered equipment provides consistent power during use and do not experience decreased performance or wear down as traditional lead-acid battery units do as they near a required battery change out or recharge time.   Further, hydrogen-powered fuel cell equipment is more environmentally friendly, without associated lead-acid battery storage and disposal issues.

Air Products had previously announced a hydrogen fueling infrastructure project for the materials handling industry in late 2008.  Air Products is installing indoor hydrogen fueling infrastructure to fill a fleet of over 200 fuel cell powered lift trucks that will operate at Central Grocers’ new distribution center in Joliet, Illinois.  The distribution center fueling project will come on-stream in 2009.  Air Products has also been involved with similar work at a grocery chain warehouse in Texas since 2007 and a manufacturing and assembly plant in Tennessee since 2006.

Air Products, the leading hydrogen supplier to refineries to assist in making cleaner burning transportation fuels, has completed over 85,000 hydrogen fills and has placed over 90 hydrogen fueling stations in the United States and 16 countries worldwide.   Cars, trucks, vans, buses, scooters, forklifts and other materials handling equipment, and even submarines, have been fueled with this trend-setting technology that involves Air Products’ know-how, equipment, and hydrogen, and use of the technology is increasing at over 2,500 hydrogen fills per month.   Air Products provides liquid and gaseous hydrogen, and HCNG (hydrogen/compressed natural gas) fueling, and has developed a variety of enabling devices and protocols for fuel dispensing at varied pressures.   Hydrogen for these stations is delivered to a site via truck, by on-site natural gas reformation, and by electrolysis, including electrolysis that is solar and wind driven.

Air Products has more than 50 years of hydrogen experience and is on the forefront of hydrogen energy technology development.  Air Products has an extensive patent portfolio with over 50 patents in hydrogen dispensing technology.   For more information on Air Products’ hydrogen fueling station technologies go to www.airproducts.com/h2energy.

CMR Fuel Cells plc, the specialist developer of high power density fuel cell stacks and systems for portable electronics applications, is pleased to announce that it has successfully demonstrated the first prototype of its hybrid fuel cell power supply system to a leading Asian Original Design Manufacturer (‘ODM’). The two companies are collaborating in the design and development of a stand-alone hybrid power system using both a battery and Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (‘DMFC’) charger.

The DMFC System being developed by CMR functions with a battery being developed by its ODM partner and is designed to provide over eight hours of grid-independent power for a notebook computer from a single fuel cartridge; removing any reliance on mains electricity during its operational period.

About CMR Fuel Cells plc

CMR Fuel Cells plc is a UK AIM-listed developer of fuel cell ‘stacks’ and systems for portable and small stationary power generation applications. The Company is targeting the consumer electronics industry where there is growing demand for new power solutions which are longer running than today’s Lithium batteries.

This demand is being driven by the increasing power requirements of portable electronics devices which have outgrown incremental improvements in the performances of traditional batteries. As a result, consumer frustration with short ‘run-time’, ‘return to mains’ recharging and questionable battery safety is compelling the electronics industry to develop and deploy suitable alternatives for power delivery.

Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (‘DMFC’) power systems can deliver longer electrical equipment run-times than conventional batteries as well as delivering other superior performance features such as ‘instant recharge anywhere’, which are ideally suited for modern feature rich, ‘always on, always connected’ wireless devices.

CMR is based in Cambridge , United Kingdom and is listed on the London Stock Exchange, AIM market as CMF.L

Ceramic Fuel Cells Limited, (AIM / ASX: CFU) a leading developer of high efficiency and low emission microgeneration products for homes, gives an update on its product development project with Nuon for the Benelux market.

The parties have completed a joint review of the project to develop micro combined heat and power (mCHP) products based on Fuel cell technology. During the project a semi-integrated mCHP unit was installed and operated. The unit comprised a CFCL NetGenPlus fuel cell unit connected to a boiler unit and was installed in September 2008.

The mCHP unit successfully met or exceeded all technical targets set by the partners, including power export, electrical efficiency, and lifetime. CFCL’s fuel cell unit successfully exported electricity to the local grid, and generated heat for the boiler, from natural gas. As at 31 March the unit has been operating for 4,624 hours.

Mr Paul Hermans, New Business Development Manager for Nuon, said:

“The test with the mCHP unit met all technical targets. However, in order to keep focus in our current product development portfolio, Nuon has decided not to further pursue the development of a Fuel cell based mCHP at this moment. Accordingly the parties will not proceed with the next stage of the project or with the conditional forward order for commercial products”.

CFCL continues to develop mCHP products with its partners in Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Japan.

Nanomix Inc., a leading nanotechnology company commercializing a line of nanoelectronic sensors for industrial and biomedical applications, today announced that it was issued an additional U.S. patent. The new patent is related to hydrogen storage technology and follows six earlier patents issued to Nanomix in this field. Efficient, safe, high-density hydrogen storage is critical to realizing the promise of practical and cost-effective energy from the emerging fuel cell industry. The new technology avoids the current limitations of liquid hydrogen storage. Using novel materials, Nanomix technology advances hydrogen storage systems to meet the performance needs of automotive, portable electronic applications, and power-grid energy storage.

“We are pleased with our growing patent portfolio related to hydrogen storage technology,” said Jeremy Rosenblatt, Vice President of Operations for Nanomix. “These advancements allow hydrogen storage systems to operate at more favorable pressure and temperature than conventional methods. Our new storage technology increases the safety and effectiveness of hydrogen-based energy storage systems. We are currently seeking industrial partners for the continued development of hydrogen energy systems based on our patented technologies.”

These is the seventh patent issued (US No. 7,479,240 issued January 20, 2009) in a group of patents comprising the Nanomix hydrogen storage portfolio. The patent describes the storage of hydrogen by physiosorption on boron oxide and boron oxide derivates. The new medium allows hydrogen storage systems to operate at lower pressure and more moderate temperature.