From hydrocarbon to a hydrogen-based economy (Part II)
Monday, October 31, 2005
"Fuel cells are devices which generate electricity without moving mechanical parts. Fuel cells can be fed with a fuel such as hydrogen, natural gas, methanol or propane and these fuels convert directly into electrical energy through an electrochemical process. The current generated is utilized in the way it is intended, as an energizer or in powering an electric motor. The efficiency in electrical conversion is twice as high as that of the usual boiler-turbine-generator combination. Their theoretical considerations have been known for quite sometime but it is only in recent years that fuel cells have been put to practical use. Fuel cells have a broad range of applications, from cell phones, laptop computers, to homes, offices and factories, to vehicles of all kinds. Fuel cells, as a component of the energy-generating system, are cleaner and less polluting since minimal quantities of carbon dioxide is produced as a by-product of the reaction. Since there is no combustion, no carbon monoxide is produced. A prototype car, which is powered by a combination of fuel cells and hydrogen gas, produces only water vapor as exhaust material and absolutely no carbon dioxide and monoxide." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 10:54 AM,
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Hydrogen revolution in East Valley
"The process of getting the cars on the road is relatively simple: the used compressed natural gas vehicles are pruchased from the city at public auction and delivered to EVIT where students install a $500 adapter that converts the engine from running on natural gas to running on a natural gas-hydrogen hybrid. Part of the problem for skeptics of the hydrogen revolution is the refining process. The most efficient way to separate the element now comes through fossil fuels like natural gas. Separating hydrogen from water through electrolysis is a cleaner method, but right now it's costly and inefficient. The technology to do that using solar and wind power is just waiting to be put to use." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 10:52 AM,
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H2Expo 2006
"The H2Expo, 5th International Conference and Trade Air on Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies, came to a close today, after a duration of two days at the CCH-Congress Center Hamburg. This high-calibre event underscored the importance of Hamburg as a centre for this future technology. There were 31 exhibitors showing their developments and prototypes at the H2Expo. There were two outstanding specialist conferences, where scientists, engineers and industry representatives discussed the state of the art and examples of the successful market launch of fuel cell products, and their future development. All in all, some 1400 participants and specialist visitors obtained information on this innovative subject at the CCH." Source: renewableenergyaccess.com
posted by Frank @ 10:51 AM,
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GM and SAIC to Develop, Produce Energy-Efficient and Environmentally Clean Vehicles in China
"General Motors Corp. Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner and SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd. (SAIC Motor) Chairman Hu Maoyuan signed a Memorandum of Understanding today in Shanghai to explore opportunities for the local application and production of energy-efficient and environmentally clean vehicles in China. The two partners will explore the expansion of the current GM-Allison-SAIC hybrid demo bus program announced last October to a larger bus fleet for Shanghai's mass transportation system in advance of the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai. GM and SAIC will also pursue passenger car hybrid options as well as other clean-energy vehicle applications including hydrogen fuel cell technologies for China's relevant vehicle platforms. The goal is to have available a number of different models designed to meet the different needs of China's consumers. The introduction of locally manufactured vehicles is targeted to be available beginning in 2008." Source: theautochannel.com
posted by Frank @ 10:49 AM,
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Event: The Hydrogen Energy Economy of New England
Saturday, October 29, 2005
"A half-day public workshop at the Chewonki Foundation, Wiscasset, Maine sponsored by the River Valley Growth Council, the Chewonki Foundation, the Environmental & Energy Technology Council of Maine and the Hydrogen Energy Center. The workshop will provide an update on all activities and will feature: * Presentations regarding hydrogen supply and demand in the region, and the future potential for hydrogen production. * Private sector initiatives and investment in hydrogen applications involving hydrogen production, vehicle fueling facilities, backup power systems and use in the marine environment. * Demonstration of the Chewonki Hydrogen Energy Project (developed in partnership with the Hydrogen Energy Center and Maine Technology Institute). * Case study of legislation, organization and commercialization in Massachusetts. * Hydrogen opportunities identified within the Energy Policy Act of 2005. * Networking and informational displays." Source: renewableenergyaccess.com
posted by Frank @ 12:45 PM,
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Ford Delivers Hydrogen Focus Fuel Cell Fleet
"Ford Motor Company has handed over the keys to five hybrid hydrogen Ford Focus Fuel Cell vehicles in Southeast Michigan this week as part of a five-city 30-car program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. Taylor will get four vehicles and Ann Arbor will receive one. Area residents will notice the Focus Fuel Cell vehicles in their neighborhoods as city employees drive the vehicles for city business or, in Taylor , as the water department travels to read meters. The vehicles will also be part of community events to spread awareness of the demonstration program. The Ford Focus Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) represents Ford's commitment to advancing the use and development of alternative-fuel technologies. It is one of the industry's first hybridized fuel cell vehicles combining the improved range and performance of hybrid technology with the overall benefits of a fuel cell. Ford has been conducting fuel cell research for more than 10 years and believes fuel cell vehicles could be commercially viable by the middle of the next decade. Ford claims the Focus FCV looks and drives like other Focus sedans on the road today. Although it is designed to look like any other car on the road, under the hood of the Focus FCV is a sophisticated hybrid electric powertrain. Tucked under the floorpan is a hydrogen fuel cell and auxiliary energy system that supplies electricity to the powertrain. A hydrogen tank in the trunk carries the car's renewable hydrogen fuel." Source: motortrend.com
posted by Frank @ 12:44 PM,
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GM Motors Towards Hydrogen-Powered Cars
"By 2010 General Motors, the world’s largest car manufacturer, has promised to develop economically viable models of a hydrogen-powered car, the company announced Wednesday at an exhibition in St. Petersburg. Although experts remain pessimistic, the company’s managers said that a new Research and Development office opened this week in Moscow would help them make advances in developing energy-saving and advanced materials." Source: sptimes.ru
posted by Frank @ 12:43 PM,
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Hydrogen researchers step on the gas
"With gasoline price rising, so is interest in hydrogen as an alternative fuel. Mazda Motor last week showed off concept cars with an engine that can switch between the two fuels. But some experts say it will be decades before drivers will be able to pull up at a hydrogen pump." Source: msn.com
posted by Frank @ 12:42 PM,
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Canon shows prototype hydrogen fuel cell
Thursday, October 27, 2005
"Canon Inc. unveiled on Wednesday a prototype hydrogen fuel cell it has developed to power portable electronics products such as digital still cameras. With its development work Canon, like several other portable gadget makers, is looking into fuel-cell technology as a possible replacement for the rechargeable batteries that power many devices today. Fuel cells hold the promise of providing more power for their size than a comparable battery, can be recharged almost instantaneously and are said to be more environmentally friendly." Source: itworld.com
posted by Frank @ 10:12 PM,
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Generating Hydrogen by Splitting Water Using Solar Light
"The University of Nevada, Reno's Materials Nanotechnolgy Research Group, under the direction of Manoranjan Misra, professor of materials science in the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, has developed titanium dioxide nanotube arrays for generating hydrogen by splitting water using solar light. The group received $1 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to fund the project. This novel method can split water to produce hydrogen energy in a more efficient manner than what is available currently in the marketplace. The fabrication and production of these nanotubes are accomplished by an inexpensive electrochemical method. University scientists are capable of adding different tubular materials to increase the water-splitting efficiency and are able to use most parts of the solar light." Source: azonano.com
posted by Frank @ 10:11 PM,
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University fuel cell extracts hydrogen from air
"The prospect of running small devices on electricity generated from a simple fuel cell running on atmospheric hydrogen and oxygen has been raised by research at the University of Oxford. Professor Fraser Armstrong used an enzyme rather than an expensive platinum catalyst to promote the oxidation of hydrogen, and his ‘biofuel’ cell generated electricity with no membrane – conventionally used to separate the reactants in the cell. It also worked in the presence of carbon monoxide, which poisons most catalysts. “For small applications, maybe even nano[scale], our fuel cell will produce electricity from just traces of hydrogen in air,” said Armstrong. “That’s really novel because you can’t do that with any conventional fuel cell, you need a membrane.”" Source: electronicsweekly.com
posted by Frank @ 10:10 PM,
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Ford Delivers More Hydrogen Focus Fuel Cell Vehicles to California
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
"Ford Motor Company is handing over the keys to three hybrid hydrogen Ford Focus Fuel Cell vehicles today as part of a seven-city 30-car program to conduct real world testing of fuel cell technology. The California Air Resources Board (CARB), the California Energy Commission (CEC), and the California Department of General Services (DGS) will each get one vehicle in addition to five already delivered to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District. The Ford Focus Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) represents Ford's commitment to advancing the use and development of alternative-fuel technologies. It is one of the industry's first hybridized fuel cell vehicles combining the improved range and performance of hybrid technology with the overall benefits of a fuel cell. Ford has been conducting fuel cell research for more than 10 years and believes fuel cell vehicles could be commercially viable by the middle of the next decade." Source: mph-online.com
posted by Frank @ 8:23 AM,
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Hydro Seeks Hydrogen Car Users
"It's still possible to be a hydrogen car user in connection with Norways first hydrogen fuelling station. The target group is future-oriented local interests with an environmental profile, said Hydro's Ulf Hafseld at a press conference in Porsgrunn on Monday. HyNor Grenland seeks a commercial bid on a fleet of hydrogen vehicles - comprising 15 Toyota Prius hybrid cars with electric motors and internal combustion engines built to use hydrogen. HyNor Grenland also hopes to include Think’s new hydrogen hybrid scheduled to become available in 2006. The plan calls for Miljøbil Grenland to buy hydrogen vehicles that are leased out to local users. The prerequisite for the project is to have enough local users. A number of parties have expressed interest, but it’s still possible to be a hydrogen car user, in connection with the hydrogen filling station at Herøya." Source: azom.com
posted by Frank @ 8:21 AM,
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Outlook bright for hydrogen biofuel cell
"British scientists say simple, cost-effective hydrogen biofuel cells could be developed from electrodes coated with a bacterial enzyme to oxidize hydrogen. Traditional hydrogen fuel cells generate energy through chemical reactions involving oxygen and hydrogen, often using precious metals as catalysts for the reactions. Now University of Oxford scientists say they've developed fuel cells using catalysts from biological organisms, or enzymes." Source: sciencedaily.com
posted by Frank @ 8:19 AM,
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Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid Concept
Monday, October 24, 2005
"The power unit for the Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid concept incorporates a hydrogen rotary engine, offering dual-fuel driving with hydrogen and gasoline, in tandem with an electric motor. The hydrogen rotary engine and the hybrid unit are transversely mounted at the front of the car in a FF layout, with the high-voltage battery located beneath the second-row seats and the high-pressure hydrogen tank beside the third row seat. This efficient packaging allows the Hydrogen RE-based hybrid system to achieve outstanding environmental and driving performance as well as a comfortable, roomy interior that still seats up to seven people." Source: carpages.co.uk
posted by Frank @ 7:52 AM,
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Victoria woos Toyota on hybrid plan
"Victoria has been in talks with Toyota to have the hybrid car, the Prius, manufactured at Altona. The move would help guarantee the future of the motor industry in Victoria, even as oil prices rise. Victoria's Minister for Manufacturing and Export, Andre Haermeyer, confirmed the discussions, which are at an early stage, but said that everything depended on a rise in local demand for the Prius or the opening of new export markets. "We are very keen to make sure that the cars that are being manufactured by Toyota are in the forefront of these technologies," Mr Haermeyer said. "The petrol-driven six cylinder isn't dead, but we want to make sure that we are positioned for when and if these new technologies take off. Clearly, we would like to see hybrids produced here in Australia."" Source: theage.com.au
posted by Frank @ 7:50 AM,
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Tokyo show proves hydrogen is popular
"If there were any doubt about the auto industry's fascination with hydrogen, one need look no further than the Tokyo Motor Show. Hydrogen-powered concept vehicles have a starring role as automakers try to divine their future. Six automakers rolled out new versions, signaling the industry's seriousness about the zero-emission alternative to gasoline. To believers such as Larry Burns, General Motors' vice president of research and development, the frenzy is validation — maybe even vindication — that hydrogen is quickly gaining acceptance as the eventual replacement for gasoline. "I think we're beginning to reach a tipping point," he said, standing next to the Sequel hydrogen concept vehicle introduced in January in Detroit. "Our industry is very serious."" Source: usatoday.com
posted by Frank @ 7:48 AM,
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University of Nevada, Reno researchers get $1 million hydrogen research federal grant
Sunday, October 23, 2005
"Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno are using a $1 million federal grant to ramp up the amount of hydrogen generated from water in order to increase its output as a source of clean energy. The U.S. Department of Energy awarded the grant to UNR's Materials Nanotechnology Research Group to fund the project under the direction of Manoranjan Misra, a professor in the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering. The research group has developed titanium dioxide nanotube arrays for generating hydrogen by splitting water using solar light." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 10:43 AM,
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Look into hydrogen for power plants
"If we can run cars on hydrogen, why not build power plants to use hydrogen rather than natural gas or nuclear energy? In regard to the shortage of natural gas and the problem of nuclear waste disposal, the power plant with hydrogen may be the answer. Hydrogen for cars means you have to have hydrogen filling stations, which could take 10 years to develop." Source: star-gazette.com letters
posted by Frank @ 10:41 AM,
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Hydrogen compressor to improve fuel cell efficiency
Friday, October 21, 2005
"Hitachi has developed a high-pressure hydrogen gas compressor for use with fuel cells that will boost the range of vehicles using the technology. At present, fuel cell vehicles can cover distances of around 300 to 400 kilometres with a full tank of hydrogen. However, the new compressor will enable hydrogen to be compressed to 84 megapascals, in comparison to the current 35, thereby significantly increasing a vehicle's range. Together with the size of the hydrogen tank, range is among the main obstacles to the wider implementation of hydrogen-fuelled vehicles. But both of these difficulties stand to be improved with the new compressor." Source: platinum.matthey.com
posted by Frank @ 4:55 AM,
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Hydrogen Teaching Initiative for Public Schools
"Progress Energy Florida and the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) are partnering with public schools to educate students about the possibilities of hydrogen as an alternative energy source. "Hydrogen: The Power and the Potential" is a student curriculum initiative that envisions the use of a variety of energy alternatives - such as hydrogen - while understanding the importance of energy conservation. Guided by teachers and presented by the FSEC, "Hydrogen: The Power and the Potential" will help students learn more about the world of alternative energy, said Bill Habermeyer, president and CEO of Progress Energy Florida." Source: Progress Energy via prnewswire.com
posted by Frank @ 4:53 AM,
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EERC Awarded $2.5 Million for New Hydrogen Facility
"The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota (UND) was approved for a $2.5 million award from the North Dakota Centers of Excellence Commission to build a new facility for the EERC's National Center for Hydrogen Technology. The $3 million, 15,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to the development and commercialization of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies and is expected to create between 50 and 100 new high-paying technical jobs and attract $50 million in research contracts in the short term. It will be built to the west of the current EERC facilities on the UND campus." Source: businesswire.com
posted by Frank @ 4:52 AM,
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Hydrogen to power TransLink test buses
Thursday, October 20, 2005
"Hydrogen recovered as a by-product at an industrial plant in North Vancouver will be used to power TransLink test buses next year. Waste hydrogen from the sodium hydrate plant could eventually be used to power up to 20,000 vehicles in the region. The $18.3-million Waste Hydrogen Utilization Project is led by the federal government, which is contributing a series of grants, and a consortium of industries. It will capture hydrogen for use in fuel cells to initially power light-duty trucks and provide heat and power to a car wash." Source: tricitynews.com
posted by Frank @ 5:36 PM,
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Hydrogen-Using Hybrid Minivan in 2008
"Japan's Mazda Motor Corp. plans to start offering a hybrid minivan powered by a hydrogen-gasoline dual-fuel rotary engine and an electric motor around 2008, President Hisakazu Imaki told a news conference Wednesday at the Tokyo Motor Show. The Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid's engine switches to gasoline once the hydrogen runs out, and the electric motor helps improve fuel economy and power output. The current prototype can be driven just 200km on a tankful of hydrogen, but the automaker intends to improve the performance." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 5:34 PM,
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NanoLogix and Welch Foods Inc. Sign Agreement for Hydrogen Bioreactor
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
"NanoLogix, Inc., a nanobiotechnology company moving rapidly towards the commercialization of its proprietary technologies for hydrogen generation systems, announced today that it has signed an agreement to install a NanoLogix hydrogen generation system using Welch Food's waste organic matter. The NanoLogix methodology for hydrogen production is being developed for the limitless production of hydrogen from organic containing waste waters. Once successfully accomplished, this has the potentiality for solving the world energy crisis through the limitless production of hydrogen from any waste organic materials, such as sewer water, ground up garbage, etc. NanoLogix has assembled a distinguished team of scientists and university professors to work on this exciting project. The NanoLogix reactor will utilize multiple proprietary methodologies for synergistically creating a hydrogen bioreactor. The hydrogen production method will utilize organic waste from Welch Food's waste stream."Source: prnewsire.com
posted by Frank @ 8:21 PM,
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Researchers Extract Hydrogen Using 'Defective' Nanostructures
"A team of scientists and students at North Carolina State University (NCSU) recently found that they were able to cut the energy consumption in half when using "defective" carbon nanotubes to extract hydrogen from water. The researchers, operating on the knowledge that a water molecule interacts with a carbon nanostructure, discovered that "defective" carbon nanotubes make it easier to "break" water molecules and extract hydrogen. Their published results, "Dissociation of Water on Defective Carbon Substrates" in Physical Review Letters (Sept. 30), reveal that naturally occurring defects in the nanotubes increase the rate of a chemical reaction because the atoms that form the defective nanotubes are "incomplete," making them more reactive." Source: renewableenergyaccess.com
posted by Frank @ 8:20 PM,
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Honda unveils hydrogen fuel-cell concept car
"Honda Motor Co has unveiled a new hydrogen-powered fuel-cell concept car which runs on a refueling unit that also supplies electricity and hot water for the home. The vehicle was unveiled at press preview of the Tokyo Motor Show, which is being held here, east of the capital. The FCX concept vehicle uses a 'home energy station', which generates hydrogen from natural gas supplied to households, Honda said. The system refines natural gas to provide the vehicle with hydrogen, which is mixed with oxygen to power the car. It can also supply electricity to the home and recover heat during power generation for domestic water heating." Source: forbes.com
posted by Frank @ 8:20 PM,
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First Sales of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Home Unit
Monday, October 17, 2005
"Krystal Planet has announced the sale of its third integrated hydrogen fuel cell system for the home, the Krystal Hydrogen System in as many months. The Krystal Hydrogen System uses solar and wind energy to produce hydrogen on site from electrolysis. Krystal Planet claims that it produces enough renewable energy to power 100% of a typical energy efficient home plus makes enough extra hydrogen to power up to two vehicles. The company reports receiving over 70 serious inquiries already, some from celebrities, and expects to sell 50 systems in 2006 and over 200 in 2007." Source: fuelcelltoday.com
posted by Frank @ 8:16 PM,
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Hydrogen fuel cells given a lift
"Toyota has announced its prototype hydrogen fuel cell forklift truck, at a time when fuel cell forklifts are due to be tested by the US army. The Toyota FCHV-F has been exhibited at the CeMAT trade fair, reports Japan Corporate News. Operating on a fuel cell, the new vehicle is capable of lifting up to 2,500 kg, just like the current electric model. Forklifts have to constantly stop and start, which can result in wasted energy. However, the fuel cell model has been fitted with electric double-layer capacitors, thereby ensuring effective running regardless of current variations." Source: www.platinum.matthey.com
posted by Frank @ 8:16 PM,
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Portable hydrogen power
"Angstrom Power announced that the company will launch two products earlyin 2006: the G2 micro-hydrogen charger and the R1 refuelling station." Source: gasworld.com
posted by Frank @ 8:14 PM,
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Hydrogen Fuel Cell Sports Car Within Three Years
"Morgan Motor Company, QinetiQ, Cranfield and Oxford Universities, BOC and OSCar recently unveiled plans to develop the LIFECar, which will be an ultra-quiet sports car with exhaust systems that produce only water vapor, and GizMag reports it could be available within 3 years." Source: newenergyreport.org
posted by Frank @ 8:00 PM,
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Korean chemical company to commercialize hydrogen fuel cells
"Korea's largest chemical company, LG Chem, announced yesterday that it intends to begin commercializing portable hydrogen fuel cells late this year, right after the global codes and standards for portable fuel cells are set up, The Korea Herald reports." Source: newenergyreport.org
posted by Frank @ 7:59 PM,
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International team of scientists finds method of producing hydrogen through solar energy
"According to Fuel Cell Today, scientists from Israel, Sweden, Switzerland and France may have overcome the main problem of using hydrogen as a clean fuel source (it usually takes a dirty fuel source like fossil fuels to create it) by using solar furnaces to heat zinc oxide and small amounts of coal until it breaks down to a fine powder, which is then mixed with water and heated to produce hydrogen safely, and experts predict that they will be able to replace the coal with biomass in the future." Source: newenergyreport.org
posted by Frank @ 7:58 PM,
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Hydrogen storage project wins UQ Business School competition
"An innovative hydrogen storage idea has won the $100,000 UQ Business School Enterprize competition. Startup company Hydrexia Pty Ltd has beaten seven Enterprize competition finalists to score $100,000 seed funding to progress their technology. The company`s technology uses a solid-state storage method based on an innovative magnesium alloy that is manufactured using low cost casting techniques." Source: uq.edu.au
posted by Frank @ 7:57 PM,
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New Jersey takes steps to be leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology
Sunday, October 16, 2005
"Alternative-energy researchers launched the New Jersey Hydrogen Learning Center yesterday at Rutgers University, hoping to make the state a leader in the development of renewable hydrogen as an energy source. The center will link hydrogen fuel cell research at Ramapo College, The College of New Jersey, Ocean County College, the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and the Rutgers University EcoComplex." Source: nj.com
posted by Frank @ 10:28 AM,
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Hydrogen-powered Shuttle Buses
"Dallas/Fort Worth Airport will begin using hydrogen-powered shuttle buses next year, according to airport and Ford Motor Co. officials. The airport is making the change as scientists worldwide are racing to find efficient ways turn hydrogen, the most common element, into an eco-friendly fuel. If they succeed, in theory, the resulting technological shift could doom the petroleum engine and end U.S. dependence on fossil fuels. D/FW is already a national leader in alternative fuel use, but this will be its first venture into the new technology of extracting hydrogen from natural gas." Source: dfw.com
posted by Frank @ 10:28 AM,
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Hydrogen horizons
"I test-drove a Honda FCX, the automaker's pioneering hydrogen-powered four-seater. During acceleration, which is peppy, the FCX also produces a whine. If hydrogen fuel cell cars are the vehicles of the future, that sound will be as reassuring to a new generation of drivers as the throaty growl of a gasoline engine is to this one. Other things to get used to are reminders of the explosiveness of hydrogen: a sensor up near the dome light that signals any leakage of hydrogen and a special grounding device for use when refueling. Refueling is one of the question marks over the FCX and all hydrogen cars. Honda says its model gets 190 miles out of the two tanks on board totaling 3.75 kilograms of compressed hydrogen. That's the energy-efficiency equivalent of 60 miles per gallon of gasoline. That range is considerably less than conventional cars get. This would not be such a problem if there were hydrogen filling stations every dozen miles or so, but currently the one closest to New England is in Albany." Source: boston.com
posted by Frank @ 10:25 AM,
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How green is hydrogen automobile?
Friday, October 14, 2005
"One of the ringleaders of the hydrogen-car movement, Akron native Stan Ovshinsky, was in town again this week, showing off the third generation of his company's re-tooled Toyota Prius. In August, when Ovshinsky brought his second-generation car to Akron, it drew raves from many corners -- engineers at Goodyear to scientists at the University of Akron to city officials to the gawkers who surrounded the car when it was displayed at Lock 3 Park. This time, Ovshinsky's Michigan company, Energy Conversion Devices -- Ovonics, retrofit a maroon 2005 Prius. This one is addressing the challenge of calculating exactly how much fuel is left in the tank." Source: ohio.com
posted by Frank @ 7:40 PM,
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North Vancouver B.C. Carwash to be Powered by a Hydrogen Fuel Cell
"The Honourable David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry, Honourable Don Bell, Member of Parliament for North Vancouver and Vicky J. Sharpe of Sustainable Development Technology Canada, today announced a $12.2 million contribution to support the demonstration of the Integrated Waste Hydrogen Utilization Project (IWHUP) in the Vancouver area. IWHUP will demonstrate innovative clean energy solutions that make use of an existing but currently untapped source of hydrogen fuel – hydrogen emitted as the by-product of a sodium chlorate manufacturing plant in the North Vancouver area. When utilized in fuel cells and related technologies, hydrogen offers the potential to significantly reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants in Canada and around the world. By making use of this fuel source right here in North Vancouver, this project will demonstrate the viability of using hydrogen captured as a by-product in real-life applications, opening the door to future opportunities across Canada." Source: emediawire.com
posted by Frank @ 7:39 PM,
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A Hydrogen Highway
Thursday, October 13, 2005
"With their ultra-low emissions and excellent mileage, hybrids aim to reduce the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. But Finegold stresses that hybrids really are only a "short-term" solution. "In the long term, we want cars to run on hydrogen," he said, referring to the next generation of power plants known as "fuel cells." "California is way ahead of where we're at," Finegold said. "We need to catch up." In California, work has begun on the "Hydrogen Highway," which would support fuel cell-powered cars with hydrogen refueling stations. Currently, there are no fuel cell-powered cars available on the market, although to much hooplah, Honda has leased one to a Los Angeles family to find its way to a consumer." Source: mph-online.com
posted by Frank @ 8:59 PM,
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Harnessing Microbes To Make Hydrogen
"Researchers in Oregon State University's Department of Bioengineering are spearheading efforts to develop sustained production of hydrogen fuel by harnessing photosynthetic microbes that use solar energy to split water molecules and make hydrogen. OSU professors Roger Ely and Frank Chaplen were notified this week that they are receiving $900,000 over the next three years from a U.S. Department of Energy grant to bolster their efforts." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 8:57 PM,
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Free lecture on the future of hydrogen energy at HSU
"Joan Ogden, co-director of the Hydrogen Pathway Program at University of California at Davis, will present a free public lecture on the future of hydrogen energy at Humboldt State University next week. In her research, Ogden, an associate professor of environmental science and policy at UC Davis, focuses on technical and economic assessment of new energy technologies, especially alternative fuels, fuel cells, renewable energy and energy conservation. Her recent work centers on the use of hydrogen as an energy carrier, hydrogen infrastructure strategies, and applications of fuel-cell technology in transportation and stationary power production. The talk is part of HSU’s new “Energy, the Environment and Society” speaker series." Source: times-standard.com
posted by Frank @ 8:56 PM,
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Is hydrogen a viable fuel alternative?
"A research investigator at the University of Missouri-Rolla has received a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to study how it might one day replace the gasoline in your vehicle’s tank. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as filling up with water. With hydrogen gas, you either need huge tanks – the space shuttle utilizes hydrogen fuel – or dangerously high pressures, according to Dr. William Yelon, a senior research investigator at UMR’s Materials Research Center. Yelon is studying hydrides of elements like lithium and boron to see if they will yield a more user-friendly form of hydrogen. “We’re going to study at what temperature does hydrogen come out of these compounds to produce ‘hydrogen gas,’” he says. “Can we lower the temperature for release? Can we speed up the process?”" Source: physorg.com
posted by Frank @ 8:19 PM,
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Indigenous Hydrogen fuel for Russian vehicles
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
"The Bellona Foundation supports the development of environmentally clean transport and extends an invitation to Russian organisations to cooperate with Bellona to develop emissions-free hydrogen-based technologies to forward this goal. Key organisatons include Russian scientific institutions who have the know-how to retool for developing alternative energy sources. At present, Bellona is already co-operating with the Kola Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the development of wind power on the Kola Peninsula in Northwest Russia." Source: bellona.no
posted by Frank @ 3:40 PM,
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Dynetek Delivers Hydrogen Storage Systems to the People's Republic of China in Response to Clean Air Initiatives for 2008 Summer Olympic Games
"Dynetek Industries Ltd. ("Dynetek"), a leader in developing, producing and marketing lightweight compressed natural gas (CNG) and compressed hydrogen storage cylinders, announced today the delivery of three Advanced Lightweight Fuel Storage Systems(R) to Tsinghau University located in Beijing, the People's Republic of China. The delivery of the roof mount hydrogen fuel storage systems to Tsinghau University is in direct response to the Chinese government's clean air initiatives, whose goal is to improve the country's air quality by 2008 when China will be host to the summer Olympic Games. As one of the fastest growing vehicle purchase markets in the world, China's air quality improvement efforts will be rewarded through their adoption of zero emission hydrogen fuel cell technology." Source: prnewswire.com
posted by Frank @ 3:38 PM,
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Hydrogen as viable energy to be subject of Bradbury talk
"Is hydrogen a viable, alternative energy source? Are the technical and economic barriers to development of hydrogen as an alternative fuel insurmountable? These and other questions will be discussed at a talk at noon Thursday at Los Alamos' Bradbury Science Museum. The talk is free and open to the public. Lorna Greening, an energy and natural resource economist, will give the talk, "Hydrogen: A viable energy source for the future?" Her talk is co-sponsored by the museum and Los Alamos Women in Science. Hydrogen has been proposed as a solution to declining domestic resources of fossil fuels and environmental problems, such as climate change and air quality." Source: lamonitor.com
posted by Frank @ 3:37 PM,
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Cadets experiment with hydrogen power
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
"At a chemistry lab at the Air Force Academy some cadets are moving hydrogen fuel technology forward. The idea of using hydrogen to produce energy has been around for decades. But the obstacles are considerable. It takes large, high-pressure tanks and right now it takes a lot of energy to turn raw materials, like water, into hydrogen. At the Academy they are experimenting with producing hydrogen through a chemical reaction between ammonia and a very reactive metal compound. The military is interested in turning hydrogen into electricity so they can power efficient motors, without using heavy batteries. It opens the way for silent vehicles, including aircraft that make very little noise." Source: koaa.com
posted by Frank @ 6:46 PM,
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Hydrogen-fuel institute planned for Japan
"Japan is to be the site of the world's first hydrogen-fuel research institute. According to the Daily Yomiuri, the Natural Resources and Energy Agency aims to create a hydrogen-fuel research institution at Kyushu University in 2006. Under the plan, 20 international researchers, headed by Professor Yukitaka Murakami, will be drawn together to conduct fundamental research into the area. Professor Murakami is recognised as a leader in the hydrogen fuel research field. In addition to other research areas, the institute will primarily focus on metal fatigue caused by hydrogen." Source: www.platinum.matthey.com
posted by Frank @ 6:45 PM,
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Purdue looking at hydrogen fuels as a cleaner alternative
"Purdue University’s hydrogen systems lab is working to develop technology that will enable fuel cells to power vehicles and make combustion engines a memory for many motorists. Hydrogen is being promoted mainly because of the benefit one could have ultimately in a carbon-free environment, explained Timothy Fisher, an associate professor of mechanical engineering, who directs the lab at the university’s new Energy Center." Source: fortwayne.com
posted by Frank @ 6:45 PM,
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Fuel cells go public
Monday, October 10, 2005
"Trafalgar Square filled with the eco-friendly vehicles of the future on 3 October 2005 as researchers from Imperial took part in an event highlighting the potential of fuel cells. A London bus that runs on hydrogen fuel cells and has no greenhouse gas emissions was one of the exhibits on display to members of the public at the event, which was organised by Grove Fuel Cell and the London Hydrogen Partnership." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 9:10 PM,
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Hydrogen scheme hailed a success
"The backers of Europe's first community-owned hydrogen production facility have claimed to be close to making the project viable. The scheme, on the Shetland island of Unst, uses wind power to supply storage heaters, with the rest of the energy producing hydrogen from water. The project has so far powered a small industrial estate and the world's first road-licenced car run on hydrogen. Islanders believe that the system will be commonly used within 10 years." Source: bbc.co.uk
posted by Frank @ 9:09 PM,
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Hydrogen fuel study center planned at Kyushu Univ.
"The Natural Resources and Energy Agency has decided to establish the world's first hydrogen-fuel research institution at Kyushu University in fiscal 2006. To promote hydrogen energy, the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry agency will invite 20 researchers from around the world to make the facility the primary institution for basic study in the field. At the institution, metal fatigue caused by hydrogen will be the main area of research, but researchers also will collect basic data in other areas. " Source: yomiuri.co.jp
posted by Frank @ 9:08 PM,
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To lighten your fuel bill, try hydrogen
"To reduce India’s growing dependence on crude oil imports, Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) on Sunday launched a hydrogen-CNG dispensing station here. The commercial use of hydrogen-blended CNG fuel has been a pilot project of IOC since last year when it announced its plans to use hydrogen-CNG fuel in commercial buses. Currently hydrogen is expensive to produce but if successfully exploited, it can reduce dependence on hydrocarbon fuels, as it is the most abundant element in the universe." Source: financialexpress.com
posted by Frank @ 9:07 PM,
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A leader in hydrogen?
Sunday, October 09, 2005
"Funding for a joint project between the University of Akron and a hydrogen fueling research company is waiting for approval from the U.S. Senate this week. If awarded, the $3.5 million grant will join the university with Ovonic Hydrogen Systems LLC, the city of Akron and the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command to further the research of hydrogen car fuel." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 9:30 AM,
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Hydrogen gas production plant to be built in Idaho
"A federal grant awarded last week will help create a new hydrogen production facility in Elmore County. The prototype facility, which could be expanded considerably in the future, will cost less than a million dollars to start up, and will sell its product to a Boise commercial gas company. The hydrogen-generation plant will be built by Idaho Synthetic Energy, Inc., of Ketchum, at a site located of Simco Road. The company has 160 acres of land for future expansion, but the initial plant will involve less than two acres. The United States is increasingly trying to move to a hydrogen-based energy system (such as fuel-cell powered cars), rather than a petroleum-based system, but so far most of the uses for hydrogen remain in a variety of manufacturing processes, such as glass and chip manufacturing." Source: fuelcellsworks.com
posted by Frank @ 9:30 AM,
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Mercedes leads race to achieve hydrogen lift-off
"An A-class is the best prospect yet to take fuel cells out of the lab and into the real world, finds Nicholas Rufford of The Sunday Times. The car does 0-62mph in a respectable 13.4sec, has a top speed of 100mph and comes with satellite navigation, air-conditioning and a CD player. The only emission from the exhaust is water vapour. The Merc runs on compressed hydrogen and has a valve where the filler cap would normally be. There are no filling stations yet — except one in Essex used for a fleet of trial buses — but BP wants eventually to sell hydrogen on motorways. Honda in America is already piloting home energy stations which make hydrogen from natural gas so you can refuel your car in your drive." Source: timesonline.co.uk
posted by Frank @ 9:27 AM,
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Hydrogen Solar receives grant aid from the BOC Foundation for the development and demonstration of scalable hydrogen production
"The BOC Foundation has awarded Hydrogen Solar funds to develop and demonstrate a system to produce carbon-free, sustainable hydrogen directly from sunlight and water using the Hydrogen Solar Tandem Cell. In the first phase of the project, Hydrogen Solar will design, build and install a 100 square metre array of Tandem Cells to generate high-purity hydrogen. The BOC Group will provide engineering safety expertise, compression units and engineering support during the installation." Source: fuelcelltoday.com
posted by Frank @ 9:26 AM,
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Hydrogen energy backed
"If Russ Voorhees has his way, the hydrogen revolution will have started at the East Valley Institute of Technology. The retired Phoenix patent attorney has been talking up the lighter-than-air energy source for years, and finally made some headway in the Valley on his goal to convert the United States to a cheaper, cleaner fuel by striking a deal with Mesa and EVIT, the technical education center that serves students from 10 school districts in the East Valley. Voorhees provides the financial backing, and EVIT students offer the brain and the brawn to pull the ambitious project off. It got started with three used Crown Victoria's from Mesa." Source: azcentral.com
posted by Frank @ 9:26 AM,
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Ford Turns to Nanotechnology for Hydrogen Cars
"Ford Motor Co., Boeing and Northwestern University announced an alliance Thursday to research commercial applications of nanotechnology, a move that could spur the development of hydrogen-powered cars. Nanotechnology, the "small science" that involves manipulating individual molecules, should help automakers create batteries for hybrid vehicles that produce more energy while weighing less and taking up less space." Source: edmunds.com
posted by Frank @ 9:25 AM,
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Mazda focuses on hybrids, hydrogen for Tokyo show
"Mazda plans to have five new vehicles, concepts and production cars, on display at the Tokyo Motor Show. Here is a preview: Senku -- This hybrid concept shows one possible direction for the evolution of the rotary engine-powered RX-8. MPV -- Mazda will unveil the latest generation of its MPV minivan, which goes on sale in Japan soon. It was deemed too small for North America and will not be sold here. Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid -- Mazda finally puts the rotary engine into a minivan. RX-8 Hydrogen RE -- This is the latest in a series of hydrogen-fueled, rotary engine-powered RX-8s from Mazda. The hydrogen system is essentially the same as that shown at the 2004 Tokyo show. But this year's car is special for two reasons: It can run on either gasoline or hydrogen. The two hydrogen tanks together provide a cruising range of 62 miles. If those run empty, the car automatically switches to gasoline and can go for another 341 miles. Tribute Hybrid -- This is a sister car to the Ford Escape Hybrid. Mazda is expected to provide details at the show as to when it goes on sale and in what quantity." Source: autoweek.com
posted by Frank @ 9:24 AM,
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