Eco Factor: Replacing expensive platinum in fuel cells with a liquid-based system to lower the cost of fuel cells.
UK-based ACAL Energy has managed to reduce the amount of platinum used in a hydrogen fuel cell by as much as 80%, which then lowers the cost of hydrogen fuel cells by 40%. The company’s unique FlowCath® technology allows them to use a catalyst and a mediator dissolved in a water-based solution.
When the solution passes through the cathode region of the fuel cell, the mediator is reduced to a simple electrode, which is then circulated to a regenerator where the catalyst reacts with oxygen to oxidize the mediator.
According to the company, this new technique allows for a reduction in the manufacturing cost of fuel cells and since peroxide isn’t formed at the electrode, the fuel cells are more durable.
For now the company is in the process of completing a 1KW unit prototype, but has plans to manufacture products for stationary power applications ranging from 1KW to 10KW in size.
Via: SCitizen
