Following Mitsubishi and SUBARU, NISSAN launched the electric vehicle LEAF into the EV (electric vehicle) market on December 20, 2010.
TOYOTA and Honda will start the sales of EVs in Spring next year.
The actual EV market started to move forward in Japan.
200 km is the running distance of LEAF on a single charge.
And the plug-in charging mode is used for charging the LEAF’s battery.
200 km, this amazed me.
Those specs are enough to satisfy the short-distance transportation requirements.
We have already the technologies on the motor itself and its control, which have sufficiently matured, although its applications, with some exceptions, do not concern the vehicle. I have thought that the decisive problem to be solved is only how to enhance the battery performances.
And, I had guessed that at least a few years were needed until the battery performances reach practical levels.
NEC (partner of NISSAN in the battery field) has a schedule to double the performances of the battery and to half the price of the battery within around two years (says NEC).
My real feeling is that the battery development progresses at higher speed than as expected.
My guess is that the problem left to us is to deploy the charging infrastructure as fast as possible.
EVs are now and will be increasing more than expected.
And the battery manufacturers can't keep up with the demand.
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season, and to see you again next year.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
Written based mainly on:
1) “Electric Vehicles Business Starts” by Yomiuri Shimbun
2) “LEAF, it is a challenge to our dream. We are confident of success in achieving the dream.” Interview with Carlos Ghosn, the president of Nissan, by Isshiki, chief editor, Asahi Shimbun
2010年12月24日金曜日
2010年12月14日火曜日
SiEnergy Systems Successfully Prototypes Micro SOFC
Development is being made to expand the application range of the SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell). The aim of the development is to apply the SOFCs to the power sources of, for example, small electronics devices such as laptops and mobile phones by lowering the operating temperature of the SOFCs, which operate at high temperatures of 700 to 1000°C.
Recently, I wrote three new electrolyte materials for use with the SOFC operating at temperatures from 350 to 600°C.
Meanwhile, at the same time, SiEnergy Systems, LLC（USA）announced the success in prototyping a micro SOFC operating at 500°C or lower, and revealed an innovative process for fabricating the electrolyte film used by the micro SOFC. The fabricating process is capable of scaling up an active area of the electrolyte film to arbitrary dimensions depending on total power needed.
SiEnergy Systems is one of the subsidiaries of Allied Minds (U.S. private equity company).
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit HERE.
Recently, I wrote three new electrolyte materials for use with the SOFC operating at temperatures from 350 to 600°C.
Meanwhile, at the same time, SiEnergy Systems, LLC（USA）announced the success in prototyping a micro SOFC operating at 500°C or lower, and revealed an innovative process for fabricating the electrolyte film used by the micro SOFC. The fabricating process is capable of scaling up an active area of the electrolyte film to arbitrary dimensions depending on total power needed.
SiEnergy Systems is one of the subsidiaries of Allied Minds (U.S. private equity company).
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit HERE.
2010年11月25日木曜日
Solid Electrolyte Materials for Intermediate-Temperature Use are Developed Anew
SOFC generally operates at high temperatures of around 1000 degrees of C.
The high temperature operation of the SOFC limits its application range.
If the operation temperature of the SOFC could be lowered to 700 degrees of C or lower, its application range will broaden. It is said that to use the SOFC (micro SOFC) for the power sources of small electronic devices, its operation temperature must be 450°C or lower
NIMS is developing solid electrolyte materials that are applicable to the intermediate-temperature SOFC operating at intermediate temperatures within a range of 350 to 600°C.
As already described, NIMS has developed the electrolyte thin film effective at the intermediate temperatures. The electrolyte thin film is a yttrium-doped barium zirconate （BZY）thin film. The pulsed laser deposition process was used for fabricating the BZY thin film.
Recently, NIMS has additionally developed two types of solid electrolyte materials in use for the intermediate-temperature SOFC.
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
The high temperature operation of the SOFC limits its application range.
If the operation temperature of the SOFC could be lowered to 700 degrees of C or lower, its application range will broaden. It is said that to use the SOFC (micro SOFC) for the power sources of small electronic devices, its operation temperature must be 450°C or lower
NIMS is developing solid electrolyte materials that are applicable to the intermediate-temperature SOFC operating at intermediate temperatures within a range of 350 to 600°C.
As already described, NIMS has developed the electrolyte thin film effective at the intermediate temperatures. The electrolyte thin film is a yttrium-doped barium zirconate （BZY）thin film. The pulsed laser deposition process was used for fabricating the BZY thin film.
Recently, NIMS has additionally developed two types of solid electrolyte materials in use for the intermediate-temperature SOFC.
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
2010年11月17日水曜日
All-Solid-State Thin-Film Lithium Ion Battery: Its Trial Product is Successfully Manufactured by AIST and Toyota
AIST and TOYOTA succeeded in manufacturing a trial product of an all-solid-state thin-film lithium (Li) ion battery. The battery exhibited its charge/discharge characteristic. This was experimentally confirmed. A positive electrode thin film (LiCoO2 or LiMn2O4), a negative electrode thin film (Li4Ti5O12), and an oxide solid electrolyte thin film were formed and laminated into a three-layered film structure by the aerosol deposition process (high speed normal temperature coating process). The three-layered film structure was placed on the metal substrate to form an all-solid state thin-film Li ion battery having a three-layered film structure. This is the first result of a research collaboration by AIST & TOYOTA for Li ion battery development.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit here.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit here.
2010年11月3日水曜日
Norway’s New Fuel Cell System – eliminate the need of hydrogen infrastructure?
A new fuel cell system is now being developed in Norway. The company that is developing the new fuel cell system is “Nordic Power Systems”. The development is carried out with support by “The Research Council of Norway”. The fuel cell system reforms regular diesel or biodiesel to produce hydrogen and the hydrogen generated drives a solid-acid fuel cell.
The new fuel cell system uses two innovative core technologies.
One of the technologies is implemented into a reformer called a “cool flame reformer”. The reformer reforms regular or biodiesel fuel into hydrogen. The regular diesel fuel is available at oil stations by anyone. This fact implies that there is no need of building the infrastructure for hydrogen filling stations.
The implications of “no need of building the infrastructure” are very significant.
The other technology is the solid-acid fuel cell technology. The solid-acid fuel cell uses a solid acid electrolyte of CsHSO4, for example, and operates in the intermediate temperature region (100 to 300 degrees C) under a non-humidity condition. Caltech (USA) developed the solid-acid fuel cell and has the patent right of it. The fuel cell is featured by low price and robustness. Currently, SAFCell (USA) is developing and manufacturing the solid-acid fuel cell.
If all goes according to plan, the unit being developed with Marshall will be ready for market launch by mid-2011, while the solid-acid fuel cell will be phased in somewhat later. An assembly plant in Høyanger, Norway, is scheduled to open in early 2012.
>> More
2010年10月13日水曜日
Big Step toward Realization of Micro SOFCs for Small Electronics Devices
NIMS has succeeded recently in fabricating a new electrolyte thin film which enables the realization of micro SOFCs that may be used as the power sources of small electronics devices such as laptop PCs and mobile phones.
* NIMS = National Institute for Materials Science
The electrolyte thin film is a yttrium-doped barium zirconate （BaZr0.8Y0.2O3-.、BZY）thin film (BZY thin film). The BZY thin film fabricated is epitaxially oriented and relatively thick and contains no grain boundaries.
The proton conductivity of the BZY thin film is 0.01 S/cm at 350℃. This value is a minimum of proton conductivity values required for practical fuel cells. Incidentally, in this type of micro SOFC, its operation temperature must be below 450 degrees Celsius. The proton conductivity of the BZY thin film measured at 350 degrees Celsius is the highest of the oxide materials ever reported. It is also much higher than the conductivity of the oxygen ion conductor that is stable in the same temperature region.
It is said that the BZY has never been taken up as the SOFC electrolyte material because its proton conductivity is extremely low. The BZY contains much grain boundaries. The blocking effect of the grain boundaries renders the proton conductivity low. To avoid this, the study used the pulse laser deposition to fabricate the BZY thin film.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
For somewhat more detail, visit KOKO.
* NIMS = National Institute for Materials Science
The electrolyte thin film is a yttrium-doped barium zirconate （BaZr0.8Y0.2O3-.、BZY）thin film (BZY thin film). The BZY thin film fabricated is epitaxially oriented and relatively thick and contains no grain boundaries.
The proton conductivity of the BZY thin film is 0.01 S/cm at 350℃. This value is a minimum of proton conductivity values required for practical fuel cells. Incidentally, in this type of micro SOFC, its operation temperature must be below 450 degrees Celsius. The proton conductivity of the BZY thin film measured at 350 degrees Celsius is the highest of the oxide materials ever reported. It is also much higher than the conductivity of the oxygen ion conductor that is stable in the same temperature region.
It is said that the BZY has never been taken up as the SOFC electrolyte material because its proton conductivity is extremely low. The BZY contains much grain boundaries. The blocking effect of the grain boundaries renders the proton conductivity low. To avoid this, the study used the pulse laser deposition to fabricate the BZY thin film.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
For somewhat more detail, visit KOKO.
2010年10月12日火曜日
Switched Reluctance Motor Supersedes Rare Earth-Contained Motors
Keywords
Rare earth, switched reluctance motor, synchronous motor, SRM, reluctance differences, interior permanent magnet synchronous motors, IPMSM, permanent magnet rotor, EV, HEV, FCV, China, Japan, collision accident, fishing boat, patrol boat, export, import
Summary
SRM was improved to have the performances comparable with those of the incumbent IPMSM. Some characteristics of the improved SRM exceeded those of the IPMSM. Creative efforts were focused on the motor structure and selection of the materials to be used, and the best combinations of them were found.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan]
The rare earth issue has been closed up recently in Japan.
Over 90% of the rare earths currently used in Japan is imported from China. Recently, the collision accident between the Chinese fishing boat and the Japanese patrol boat occurred. As the result of the
**************
[Copyright by FuelCell japan]
To learn more in English, feel free to contact at newene02"abc" fcpat-japan.com
Please replace "abc" with "@".
We don't accept free-mail addresses.
Please understand that our special circumstances cause us to do so.
FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/
Rare earth, switched reluctance motor, synchronous motor, SRM, reluctance differences, interior permanent magnet synchronous motors, IPMSM, permanent magnet rotor, EV, HEV, FCV, China, Japan, collision accident, fishing boat, patrol boat, export, import
Summary
SRM was improved to have the performances comparable with those of the incumbent IPMSM. Some characteristics of the improved SRM exceeded those of the IPMSM. Creative efforts were focused on the motor structure and selection of the materials to be used, and the best combinations of them were found.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan]
The rare earth issue has been closed up recently in Japan.
Over 90% of the rare earths currently used in Japan is imported from China. Recently, the collision accident between the Chinese fishing boat and the Japanese patrol boat occurred. As the result of the
**************
[Copyright by FuelCell japan]
To learn more in English, feel free to contact at newene02"abc" fcpat-japan.com
Please replace "abc" with "@".
We don't accept free-mail addresses.
Please understand that our special circumstances cause us to do so.
FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/
2010年9月23日木曜日
Oxygen Ion Distribution in SOFC Cells, Successfully Visualized
Technology Brief Description:
A new technology developed this time uses the stable isotopes of oxygen (18O) as labeling elements, and further uses the SIMS (secondary ion mass spectrometry) for measuring a distribution of concentrations of oxygen stable isotopes (18O) at high resolution of the order of micrometers or smaller.
Reference is made to Figs. A to D (the uppermost drawings of HERE). A medium-temperature planar tubular cell stack (Figs. A and B) of a practical SOFC machine, which is operating at high temperature, was used. The stable isotopes of oxygen (18O) were introduced into the SOFC machine. And the fuel cell reaction took place. The cell stack was rapidly cooled down to normal temperature. In this state, a measurement was made of a concentration distribution of the oxygen stable isotopes in the solid electrolyte. As a result, active sites of oxygen ionizing reaction in the cell were visualized and specified (Figs. C and D).
The technology is capable of specifying portions in the electrodes and the electrolyte where oxygen ionization reaction activity is high, and further visualizing a concentration distribution associated with the oxygen ions (diffusion). Therefore, the technology will provide helpful instructions to designers of high performance electrode/electrolyte interfaces and contribute to elucidation of the deterioration mechanism.
Background Description:
As known, SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) has advantageous features of high power generation efficiency, substantially eliminating the need of catalyst, and the like. And it has been known as the next generation fuel cell. In Japan, residential SOFC micro-CHP systems have been under demonstration test from 2007. Osaka gas, Toyota, Kyocera, etc. has substantially completed development of the same type of fuel cell system, and entered the demonstration test. "BlueGen" of Ceramic Fuel Cells Limited in Australia is well known for the SOFC micro-CHP system. The output power of BlueGen is 2 kW.
SOFC has the electrolyte consisting mainly of solid ceramics. In the SOFC, oxygen molecules (O2) are ionized into oxygen ions (O2-). The oxygen ions diffuse into the solid electrolyte, and then react with hydrogen to produce electricity. To enhance the performances of the SOFC, it is necessary to reduce reaction resistance associated with the oxygen ionization and the oxygen ion diffusion.
Motions of oxygen and oxygen ions have been estimated indirectly. A model of the electrode reaction mechanism was established. The model was placed in various conditions. Electrical signals produced from the model were measured. There are almost no technologies being capable of directly visualizing portions of the practical SOFC machine where oxygen ionization reaction activity is high and concentration distributions of oxygen ions associated with the diffusion of the oxygen ions.
For somewhat more detail, visit HERE.
***************************
Ikuo Kawai & UNHCR
News: Sept. 23, 2010 -
1) Koydo says: Japanese prime minister Naoto Kan stated at the Millennium Development Goals summit, New York, that Japan pledges to contribute a total of 8.5 billion dollars to the U.N. for five years from now on: 5 billion dollars for anti-infectious disease measures, and 3.5 billion dollars for the spread of universal primary education.
2) Time says: U.N.: More Funds Pledged to Fight Poverty
(UNITED NATIONS) — A three-day summit to push global leaders to meet U.N. goals to significantly reduce poverty by 2015 wraps up Wednesday with new financial pledges from countries but no certainty there will be enough money and political commitment to meet the targets.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
Ikuko Kawai: Stradivarius violinist
Official site: http://www.ikukokawai.com/prof/prof-english.html
Volunteer work: Visit Ikuo Kawai & UNHCR
Listen to Albinoni's Adagio, if interested.
A new technology developed this time uses the stable isotopes of oxygen (18O) as labeling elements, and further uses the SIMS (secondary ion mass spectrometry) for measuring a distribution of concentrations of oxygen stable isotopes (18O) at high resolution of the order of micrometers or smaller.
Reference is made to Figs. A to D (the uppermost drawings of HERE). A medium-temperature planar tubular cell stack (Figs. A and B) of a practical SOFC machine, which is operating at high temperature, was used. The stable isotopes of oxygen (18O) were introduced into the SOFC machine. And the fuel cell reaction took place. The cell stack was rapidly cooled down to normal temperature. In this state, a measurement was made of a concentration distribution of the oxygen stable isotopes in the solid electrolyte. As a result, active sites of oxygen ionizing reaction in the cell were visualized and specified (Figs. C and D).
The technology is capable of specifying portions in the electrodes and the electrolyte where oxygen ionization reaction activity is high, and further visualizing a concentration distribution associated with the oxygen ions (diffusion). Therefore, the technology will provide helpful instructions to designers of high performance electrode/electrolyte interfaces and contribute to elucidation of the deterioration mechanism.
Background Description:
As known, SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) has advantageous features of high power generation efficiency, substantially eliminating the need of catalyst, and the like. And it has been known as the next generation fuel cell. In Japan, residential SOFC micro-CHP systems have been under demonstration test from 2007. Osaka gas, Toyota, Kyocera, etc. has substantially completed development of the same type of fuel cell system, and entered the demonstration test. "BlueGen" of Ceramic Fuel Cells Limited in Australia is well known for the SOFC micro-CHP system. The output power of BlueGen is 2 kW.
SOFC has the electrolyte consisting mainly of solid ceramics. In the SOFC, oxygen molecules (O2) are ionized into oxygen ions (O2-). The oxygen ions diffuse into the solid electrolyte, and then react with hydrogen to produce electricity. To enhance the performances of the SOFC, it is necessary to reduce reaction resistance associated with the oxygen ionization and the oxygen ion diffusion.
Motions of oxygen and oxygen ions have been estimated indirectly. A model of the electrode reaction mechanism was established. The model was placed in various conditions. Electrical signals produced from the model were measured. There are almost no technologies being capable of directly visualizing portions of the practical SOFC machine where oxygen ionization reaction activity is high and concentration distributions of oxygen ions associated with the diffusion of the oxygen ions.
For somewhat more detail, visit HERE.
***************************
Ikuo Kawai & UNHCR
News: Sept. 23, 2010 -
1) Koydo says: Japanese prime minister Naoto Kan stated at the Millennium Development Goals summit, New York, that Japan pledges to contribute a total of 8.5 billion dollars to the U.N. for five years from now on: 5 billion dollars for anti-infectious disease measures, and 3.5 billion dollars for the spread of universal primary education.
2) Time says: U.N.: More Funds Pledged to Fight Poverty
(UNITED NATIONS) — A three-day summit to push global leaders to meet U.N. goals to significantly reduce poverty by 2015 wraps up Wednesday with new financial pledges from countries but no certainty there will be enough money and political commitment to meet the targets.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
Ikuko Kawai: Stradivarius violinist
Official site: http://www.ikukokawai.com/prof/prof-english.html
Volunteer work: Visit Ikuo Kawai & UNHCR
Listen to Albinoni's Adagio, if interested.
2010年8月20日金曜日
“Hydrogen Embrittlement”, this tough nut is cracked at last
Note:
“Great Solution to "Hydrogen Embrittlement Problem"”, published on July 6, 2010, has been rewritten into this article.
The reasons for this are:
1) Description of the previous article is unsatisfactory because the time allowed for me to write was insufficient.
2) The number of accesses to the article is relatively large.
**************************
Hydrogen embrittlement: When a metal is exposed to hydrogen, the hydrogen enters into the metal and the metal is brittle and fractured.
Discovery: When an extremely large amount of hydrogen was made to enter a metal material, a fatigue strength characteristic of the material was considerably improved.
Discovered by HYDROGENIUS = Research Center for Hydrogen Industrial Use and Storage, located at Ito-Campus of Kyushu University
The discovery denies the explanation of the “hydrogen embrittlement” thus far made.
Much research efforts have been made to elucidate a mechanism of the hydrogen embrittlement for a long time in the world. Some theories to explain the hydrogen embrittlement phenomenon have been proposed. This phenomenon has not yet been elucidated, however. It is sure that this fact has impeded real commercialization of the products using hydrogen gas.
To read more, visit HERE.
“Great Solution to "Hydrogen Embrittlement Problem"”, published on July 6, 2010, has been rewritten into this article.
The reasons for this are:
1) Description of the previous article is unsatisfactory because the time allowed for me to write was insufficient.
2) The number of accesses to the article is relatively large.
**************************
Hydrogen embrittlement: When a metal is exposed to hydrogen, the hydrogen enters into the metal and the metal is brittle and fractured.
Discovery: When an extremely large amount of hydrogen was made to enter a metal material, a fatigue strength characteristic of the material was considerably improved.
Discovered by HYDROGENIUS = Research Center for Hydrogen Industrial Use and Storage, located at Ito-Campus of Kyushu University
The discovery denies the explanation of the “hydrogen embrittlement” thus far made.
Much research efforts have been made to elucidate a mechanism of the hydrogen embrittlement for a long time in the world. Some theories to explain the hydrogen embrittlement phenomenon have been proposed. This phenomenon has not yet been elucidated, however. It is sure that this fact has impeded real commercialization of the products using hydrogen gas.
To read more, visit HERE.
2010年8月10日火曜日
Sulfur-Doped Fe-Te Says “I Need More Wine”
NIMS recently made an interesting discovery on the superconductivity development of specific materials.
Discovery: A sulfur-doped iron- tellurium compound （FeTe1-xSx）, which is synthesized by the solid-state reaction process, was simmered in alcoholic drinks for 24 hours. The temperature was about 70 degrees of centigrade. The onset of superconductivity was observed at about 8 K (265 degrees below zero). The drinks used were red wine, white wine, beer, sake, shochu, and whisky. Of those drinks the red wine presented the largest superconducting volume fraction.
At a party, Dr. Takano was inspired to use drinks to cause the material to develop superconductivity. Isaac Newton reached his theory of gravitation when he was hit with (??) ａ falling apple from a tree. It seems that there is a rule that the discovery occurs outside the laboratory.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit here.
Keywords?: simmer, alcoholic drinks, superconductivity, drunken?
Discovery: A sulfur-doped iron- tellurium compound （FeTe1-xSx）, which is synthesized by the solid-state reaction process, was simmered in alcoholic drinks for 24 hours. The temperature was about 70 degrees of centigrade. The onset of superconductivity was observed at about 8 K (265 degrees below zero). The drinks used were red wine, white wine, beer, sake, shochu, and whisky. Of those drinks the red wine presented the largest superconducting volume fraction.
At a party, Dr. Takano was inspired to use drinks to cause the material to develop superconductivity. Isaac Newton reached his theory of gravitation when he was hit with (??) ａ falling apple from a tree. It seems that there is a rule that the discovery occurs outside the laboratory.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit here.
Keywords?: simmer, alcoholic drinks, superconductivity, drunken?
2010年7月22日木曜日
United Natural Foods purchases a Large Volume of Fuel-Cell Driven Lift Trucks
It seems that the fuel cell lift trucks are increasing in number in the North American area. United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) purchased over 100 fuel-cell lift trucks from Plug Power Inc., and those lift trucks are now operating (press release-2). The fuel cell units mounted on the lift trucks are GenDrive™ (TM = trade mark) units manufactured by Plug Power Inc.
The GenDrive uses the fuel cell stack (Fcvelocity™ (TM = trade mark)) manufactured by Ballard Power Systems Inc. Plug Power has exclusively used the fuel cell stacks manufactured by Ballard, and will use the same in the same way. “Power Plug and Ballard have extended their existing supply agreement, effective immediately, through 2014 (press release-1).” The press release-1 immediately follows the press release-2. The combination of Ballard and Plug Power takes a market share of over 85% in the material handling space.
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
press release-1:
“Plug Power And Ballard Extend Supply Agreement Through 2014” (July 15, 2010)
- Plug Power
- Ballard
press release-2:
UNFI Deploys Plug Power Gendrive Fuel Cells To Increase Productivity At Distribution Center (July 13, 2010)
The GenDrive uses the fuel cell stack (Fcvelocity™ (TM = trade mark)) manufactured by Ballard Power Systems Inc. Plug Power has exclusively used the fuel cell stacks manufactured by Ballard, and will use the same in the same way. “Power Plug and Ballard have extended their existing supply agreement, effective immediately, through 2014 (press release-1).” The press release-1 immediately follows the press release-2. The combination of Ballard and Plug Power takes a market share of over 85% in the material handling space.
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
press release-1:
“Plug Power And Ballard Extend Supply Agreement Through 2014” (July 15, 2010)
- Plug Power
- Ballard
press release-2:
UNFI Deploys Plug Power Gendrive Fuel Cells To Increase Productivity At Distribution Center (July 13, 2010)
2010年7月17日土曜日
Direct Flame Exposure Type Fuel Cell
The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) has recently attracted attention as the next generation fuel cell. Disadvantageously, however, the SOFC operates at high temperature, usually 750 to 1,000 degrees of centigrade. Long time is taken and much electric power is consumed till the operating temperature of the SOFC is reached.
During search of patent documents, I unexpectedly hit a patent gazette entitled “Direct Flame Exposure Type Fuel Cell”. This technology is unique in that the power generating cells (stack) are heated directly by a heat source to reduce the startup time of the SOFC. The applicant of the invention of the technology is “Shinko Electric Industries Co., Ltd. (SHINKO)”. The company is a leader of semiconductor packaging manufactures in Japan. It seems that in the invention, the anode side of the cell stack is placed in a flame or located near the flame.
The SHINKO’s homepage says: Such an idea as to directly heat the cell stack for the purpose of reducing the startup time of the SOFC has been known.
The cell stack structure is complicated in many aspects. If heat is directly applied to the cell stack, many problems will be created, and those are serious and difficult to cope with. This encouraged almost no one to take approaches to find solutions to the problems. In this situation, SHINKO ventured to develop the technology of the “direct flame exposure type fuel cell” by making full use of the ceramic technology having been cultivated through the production of ceramic packages.
No other information than above on this technology could be found in the homepage, but the patent database presented many patent applications of the technology (inventions).
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
During search of patent documents, I unexpectedly hit a patent gazette entitled “Direct Flame Exposure Type Fuel Cell”. This technology is unique in that the power generating cells (stack) are heated directly by a heat source to reduce the startup time of the SOFC. The applicant of the invention of the technology is “Shinko Electric Industries Co., Ltd. (SHINKO)”. The company is a leader of semiconductor packaging manufactures in Japan. It seems that in the invention, the anode side of the cell stack is placed in a flame or located near the flame.
The SHINKO’s homepage says: Such an idea as to directly heat the cell stack for the purpose of reducing the startup time of the SOFC has been known.
The cell stack structure is complicated in many aspects. If heat is directly applied to the cell stack, many problems will be created, and those are serious and difficult to cope with. This encouraged almost no one to take approaches to find solutions to the problems. In this situation, SHINKO ventured to develop the technology of the “direct flame exposure type fuel cell” by making full use of the ceramic technology having been cultivated through the production of ceramic packages.
No other information than above on this technology could be found in the homepage, but the patent database presented many patent applications of the technology (inventions).
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
2010年7月13日火曜日
New Outdoor Radio Clock Using Electric Double Layer Condenser for Electric Storage
CITIZEN T.I.C. CO., LTD. (the consolidated subsidiary company of Citizen Holdings Co., Ltd.) started the sale of a new solar cell-driven outdoor radio clock (on June 6, 2010). The outdoor radio clock uses the electric double layer condenser for electricity storage. The Ni-Cd battery has been used for the same purpose. The primary power source of the clock is a solar cell.
Advantageous features:
1) The battery replacement period is significantly long, about 15 years, while that of the Ni-Cd battery is about 5 years (since the battery performance is less deteriorated through the charging/discharging operation.)
2) Environment friendly and safe (since toxic heavy metals (e.g., cadmium or lead) are not used.)
3) Even on cloudy and rainy days, the capacitor battery can secure the electric power consumed during the day through the charging operation, with good charging efficiency.
4) No time correction work, no electric wiring work, and no electric fee
Price: 320,250 yen to 1,176,000 yen (before taxes)
Electric storage: electric double layer condenser (1300 F) x 2
The product details are here.
Note:
The capacitor technology has reached such a level as to allow the capacitor to be used in place of the battery. In the Citizen’s outdoor clock, the Ni-Cd battery is replaced with the capacitor. It seems that the defects of the clock, which result from use of the Ni-Cd battery, have been removed. The capacitor functions to store electric energy while receiving weak current from the solar cell when it is cloudy and rainy. This feature of the capacitor is also important. The capacitor caught my eyes since I have just introduced the new capacitor using single-layer carbon nanotube electrodes, developed by AIST, and the capacitor still remains in my brain.
Advantageous features:
1) The battery replacement period is significantly long, about 15 years, while that of the Ni-Cd battery is about 5 years (since the battery performance is less deteriorated through the charging/discharging operation.)
2) Environment friendly and safe (since toxic heavy metals (e.g., cadmium or lead) are not used.)
3) Even on cloudy and rainy days, the capacitor battery can secure the electric power consumed during the day through the charging operation, with good charging efficiency.
4) No time correction work, no electric wiring work, and no electric fee
Price: 320,250 yen to 1,176,000 yen (before taxes)
Electric storage: electric double layer condenser (1300 F) x 2
The product details are here.
Note:
The capacitor technology has reached such a level as to allow the capacitor to be used in place of the battery. In the Citizen’s outdoor clock, the Ni-Cd battery is replaced with the capacitor. It seems that the defects of the clock, which result from use of the Ni-Cd battery, have been removed. The capacitor functions to store electric energy while receiving weak current from the solar cell when it is cloudy and rainy. This feature of the capacitor is also important. The capacitor caught my eyes since I have just introduced the new capacitor using single-layer carbon nanotube electrodes, developed by AIST, and the capacitor still remains in my brain.
2010年7月8日木曜日
Single-layer Carbon Nanotube Electrode Capacitor Not Using Current Collectors
Developed by:
Advanced Industrial Science And Technology (AIST)
http://www.aist.go.jp/index_en.html
イザディナジャファバディ アリ（Maijo University）
The capacitor is increasing its applications because of its many advantageous features such as rapid charging/discharging functions, high power density, long service life, and low internal resistance.
In this circumstance, a new capacitor having single-layer carbon nanotube (high purity) electrodes and elimination of current collectors has been developed. Its performances were evaluated. The result showed that the new capacitor stably operated with application of higher voltage than the capacitor using activated carbon.
Disadvantages of activated carbon: Conductive bonding agent is needed to mold powdered activated carbon into an electrode. Impurities and functional groups, which are on the surface of the bonding agent and the activated carbon, promote deterioration of the electrode. The result is that voltage that is allowed to be applied to the capacitor is at most 3 V or lower, and that the service life of the capacitor is short.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit here.
Advanced Industrial Science And Technology (AIST)
http://www.aist.go.jp/index_en.html
イザディナジャファバディ アリ（Maijo University）
The capacitor is increasing its applications because of its many advantageous features such as rapid charging/discharging functions, high power density, long service life, and low internal resistance.
In this circumstance, a new capacitor having single-layer carbon nanotube (high purity) electrodes and elimination of current collectors has been developed. Its performances were evaluated. The result showed that the new capacitor stably operated with application of higher voltage than the capacitor using activated carbon.
Disadvantages of activated carbon: Conductive bonding agent is needed to mold powdered activated carbon into an electrode. Impurities and functional groups, which are on the surface of the bonding agent and the activated carbon, promote deterioration of the electrode. The result is that voltage that is allowed to be applied to the capacitor is at most 3 V or lower, and that the service life of the capacitor is short.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more, visit here.
2010年7月6日火曜日
Great Solution to “Hydrogen Embrittlement Problem”, - Open the flood gates of fuel cell real commercialization ? -
Please read ""Hydrogen Embrittlement", this tough nut is cracked at last" above.
2010年6月28日月曜日
SENATOR DORGAN HONORED FOR LEADERSHIP TO ADVANCE HYDROGEN AND FUEL CELL TECHNOLOGIES
Washington, DC--The National Hydrogen Association presented Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) with the Spark Matsunaga Memorial Hydrogen Award Thursday in recognition of his long history of leadership in Congress to advance America's hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. The other 2010 recipients are Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI) and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"Hydrogen energy technology will help drive America's energy future and reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Senator Dorgan said. "I've long been a supporter of boosting the use of hydrogen energy in our country, and I've worked to increase funding for hydrogen research and development. In fact, I helped to create the first-ever national Center for Hydrogen Technology located at the University of North Dakota."
"For many years Senator Dorgan has been a tireless champion for hydrogen and fuel cells, working to advance the legislation and appropriations necessary to bring these important clean energy technologies significantly closer to commercialization," said Jeffrey Serfass, President of the National Hydrogen Association. "As the popularity of hydrogen has waxed and waned, Senator Dorgan's steady support has ensured that the technologies have improved by leaps and bounds. Many rapid R&D achievements recorded by the U.S. Department of Energy and industry are a direct result of Senator Dorgan's vision, leadership, and commitment."
Senator Dorgan:
A founding Co-Chair of the Senate Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Caucus, and had an integral role in advancing hydrogen and fuel cell provisions in the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The National Hydrogen Association:
Founded in 1989, is a membership organization composed of university, research, and business members. Its mission is to foster the development of hydrogen technologies and their utilization in industrial, commercial, and consumer applications and promote the role of hydrogen in the energy field.
url: http://www.hydrogenassociation.org
CONTACT:
NHA: Patrick Serfass, 202-223-5547 x366
serfassp@HydrogenAssociation.org
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
The press release is roughly translated into Japanese. If interested, please visit here.
"Hydrogen energy technology will help drive America's energy future and reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Senator Dorgan said. "I've long been a supporter of boosting the use of hydrogen energy in our country, and I've worked to increase funding for hydrogen research and development. In fact, I helped to create the first-ever national Center for Hydrogen Technology located at the University of North Dakota."
"For many years Senator Dorgan has been a tireless champion for hydrogen and fuel cells, working to advance the legislation and appropriations necessary to bring these important clean energy technologies significantly closer to commercialization," said Jeffrey Serfass, President of the National Hydrogen Association. "As the popularity of hydrogen has waxed and waned, Senator Dorgan's steady support has ensured that the technologies have improved by leaps and bounds. Many rapid R&D achievements recorded by the U.S. Department of Energy and industry are a direct result of Senator Dorgan's vision, leadership, and commitment."
Senator Dorgan:
A founding Co-Chair of the Senate Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Caucus, and had an integral role in advancing hydrogen and fuel cell provisions in the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
The National Hydrogen Association:
Founded in 1989, is a membership organization composed of university, research, and business members. Its mission is to foster the development of hydrogen technologies and their utilization in industrial, commercial, and consumer applications and promote the role of hydrogen in the energy field.
url: http://www.hydrogenassociation.org
CONTACT:
NHA: Patrick Serfass, 202-223-5547 x366
serfassp@HydrogenAssociation.org
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
The press release is roughly translated into Japanese. If interested, please visit here.
2010年6月24日木曜日
“Silver Phosphate Is a Highly Active Photocatalytic Material Responsive to Visible Light”, Discovered by NIMS
* NIMS: National Institute for Materials Science
The silver phosphate as a photocatalytic material discovered this time 1) photocatalytically reacts with water under visible light irradiation at normal temperature, and 2) the quantum efficiency of the silver phosphate is about 90% under visible light irradiation.
The photocatalyst is now attracting great attention.
For somewhat more detail, visit here (New Photocatalytic Material, 90% Quantum Efficiency Under Visible Light Irradiation).
The silver phosphate as a photocatalytic material discovered this time 1) photocatalytically reacts with water under visible light irradiation at normal temperature, and 2) the quantum efficiency of the silver phosphate is about 90% under visible light irradiation.
The photocatalyst is now attracting great attention.
For somewhat more detail, visit here (New Photocatalytic Material, 90% Quantum Efficiency Under Visible Light Irradiation).
2010年6月15日火曜日
Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Industries Join Call to Increase Clean Energy Investment
Washington, DC--The Electric Drive Transportation Association, the National Hydrogen Association and U.S. Fuel Cell Council added their support today to dramatically increase the U.S. investment in clean energy technologies.
"Hydrogen and fuel cell technologies are an essential part of America's energy solution. Commercial fuel cells will deliver clean, efficient energy at home and at work, create hundreds of thousands of American jobs and, together with other technologies, eliminate the need for gasoline for passenger vehicles," the organizations said in a joint statement.
"Fuel cells make energy electrochemically, without combustion, from hydrogen and hydrogen rich fuels. Some of the largest and most progressive companies in America are already using fuel cells for highly reliable heat and power, to guarantee computer and telephone communications, move goods, keep food cold and travelers and students warm. Thousands of average Americans have driven fuel cell electric vehicles and hundreds of thousands are expected on the road in the next decade.
"Fuel cells and hydrogen energy are American engineered, American manufactured and domestically fueled. America can capture 250,000 jobs in the next 10 years making, installing and servicing fuel cells, according to Fuel Cell Today. But those jobs are not guaranteed. There is an intense international competition. A stronger public investment in fuel cells will allow America to keep its lead, and capture its share of green jobs, profits and energy security benefits," the organizations said.
"The industry and government have had a strong partnership in developing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, although federal investment has been decreasing in recent years. Going forward, a clarification of priorities is needed," the organizations said. "To achieve our national goals for increased security and reduced pollutants, the U.S. must expand its commitment to the clean energy options that hydrogen and fuels provide. We have learned from other advanced energy opportunities lost that it will be more expensive to buy these technologies back from foreign competitors if we let them finish what the U.S. has started."
· Fuel cells and hydrogen can help free America from the menace of oil dependence. Fuel cell passenger vehicles are 2-3 times more efficient than today's gasoline powered vehicles and can achieve the equivalent of 60 to 70 miles per gallon. In combination with other technologies, fuel cell vehicles can reduce light duty demand for gasoline nearly to zero by 2050 and can achieve an 80% CO2 reduction, according to the National Academies of Science and the NHA's Energy Evolution study.
· Fuel cells advance integration of renewables, such as solar and wind power, into the electricity grid by enhancing their stability. Whatever the source, fuel cells save energy, save customers money and reduce emissions.
· Fuel cell power systems are 80% to 90% efficient when both heat and electricity are generated for homes or businesses. Systems optimized to produce electricity achieve 50% or greater electrical efficiency-many times greater than generators. Residential fuel cells reduce home energy use by one-third or more.
· Fuel cells reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to conventional technologies, reductions start at a minimum of 20% to 60% for power systems and 50% from passenger cars when natural gas is used. These reductions increase to 100% when renewable energy is used to make hydrogen to fuel the fuel cell.
EDTA, NHA, and USFCC collectively represent more than 200 companies and organizations.
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
*************
CONTACT:
EDTA: Genevieve Cullen, 202-408-0774 x308
gcullen@electricdrive.org
NHA: Patrick Serfass, 202-223-5547 x366
serfassp@HydrogenAssociation.org
USFCC: Brynne Ward, 202 293 5500
bward@usfcc.com
"Hydrogen and fuel cell technologies are an essential part of America's energy solution. Commercial fuel cells will deliver clean, efficient energy at home and at work, create hundreds of thousands of American jobs and, together with other technologies, eliminate the need for gasoline for passenger vehicles," the organizations said in a joint statement.
"Fuel cells make energy electrochemically, without combustion, from hydrogen and hydrogen rich fuels. Some of the largest and most progressive companies in America are already using fuel cells for highly reliable heat and power, to guarantee computer and telephone communications, move goods, keep food cold and travelers and students warm. Thousands of average Americans have driven fuel cell electric vehicles and hundreds of thousands are expected on the road in the next decade.
"Fuel cells and hydrogen energy are American engineered, American manufactured and domestically fueled. America can capture 250,000 jobs in the next 10 years making, installing and servicing fuel cells, according to Fuel Cell Today. But those jobs are not guaranteed. There is an intense international competition. A stronger public investment in fuel cells will allow America to keep its lead, and capture its share of green jobs, profits and energy security benefits," the organizations said.
"The industry and government have had a strong partnership in developing hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, although federal investment has been decreasing in recent years. Going forward, a clarification of priorities is needed," the organizations said. "To achieve our national goals for increased security and reduced pollutants, the U.S. must expand its commitment to the clean energy options that hydrogen and fuels provide. We have learned from other advanced energy opportunities lost that it will be more expensive to buy these technologies back from foreign competitors if we let them finish what the U.S. has started."
· Fuel cells and hydrogen can help free America from the menace of oil dependence. Fuel cell passenger vehicles are 2-3 times more efficient than today's gasoline powered vehicles and can achieve the equivalent of 60 to 70 miles per gallon. In combination with other technologies, fuel cell vehicles can reduce light duty demand for gasoline nearly to zero by 2050 and can achieve an 80% CO2 reduction, according to the National Academies of Science and the NHA's Energy Evolution study.
· Fuel cells advance integration of renewables, such as solar and wind power, into the electricity grid by enhancing their stability. Whatever the source, fuel cells save energy, save customers money and reduce emissions.
· Fuel cell power systems are 80% to 90% efficient when both heat and electricity are generated for homes or businesses. Systems optimized to produce electricity achieve 50% or greater electrical efficiency-many times greater than generators. Residential fuel cells reduce home energy use by one-third or more.
· Fuel cells reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to conventional technologies, reductions start at a minimum of 20% to 60% for power systems and 50% from passenger cars when natural gas is used. These reductions increase to 100% when renewable energy is used to make hydrogen to fuel the fuel cell.
EDTA, NHA, and USFCC collectively represent more than 200 companies and organizations.
For somewhat more detail, visit here.
*************
CONTACT:
EDTA: Genevieve Cullen, 202-408-0774 x308
gcullen@electricdrive.org
NHA: Patrick Serfass, 202-223-5547 x366
serfassp@HydrogenAssociation.org
USFCC: Brynne Ward, 202 293 5500
bward@usfcc.com
2010年6月5日土曜日
CLEAN ENERGY PATENT GROWTH INDEX RESULTS THROUGH 1st QUARTER 2010
Honda Takes Lead
ALBANY, NY—Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C. is pleased to announce results for the first quarter of 2010 for the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index (CEPGI) by the firm’s Cleantech Group.
The CEPGI tracks the granting of patents in the Clean Energy sector and monitors important technological breakthroughs in this field. Victor Cardona, Co-chair of the firm’s Cleantech Group stated, “we are pleased to announce that the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index reached its highest quarterly value in the first quarter of 2010.” Honda took the quarterly Clean Energy patent Crown from GM. Granted patents for fuel cells, solar and hybrid/electric vehicles reached quarterly records while wind patents fell. Fuel cell patents dominated the other sectors.
To learn more.
ALBANY, NY—Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C. is pleased to announce results for the first quarter of 2010 for the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index (CEPGI) by the firm’s Cleantech Group.
The CEPGI tracks the granting of patents in the Clean Energy sector and monitors important technological breakthroughs in this field. Victor Cardona, Co-chair of the firm’s Cleantech Group stated, “we are pleased to announce that the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index reached its highest quarterly value in the first quarter of 2010.” Honda took the quarterly Clean Energy patent Crown from GM. Granted patents for fuel cells, solar and hybrid/electric vehicles reached quarterly records while wind patents fell. Fuel cell patents dominated the other sectors.
To learn more.
2010年6月3日木曜日
Shell’s attitude to and Activities Performance on CO2 Reduction
I found an email studded with some words of “Shell” in the inbox.
The email arrived from TIME. It seemed like a PR email. I guess there are many people having received the same emails as the one I received. The opened email tells about Shell’s attitude to CO2 emission reduction problem, the results of company’s activities having come to grips with the problem, and the activities being done and to be done for solving the problem.
I felt something different when reading the email message, carefully read it, and found that the sentences were refined giving off a faint smell of emotion.
Simple linear extension of the logic of the sentence results only in unnatural Japanese.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan]
If I translate the original into Japanese, the Japanese produced will fail to reach the sentence level of the original. The reason is that my Japanese may have an imaginary-part vector aplasia disease. No matter how much I listen to a new medicine, which seems likely to be good for the disease, much time is needed till it works for my disease.
So, I give up to translate the email message into Japanese, and instead of translation, pick up Shell’s problem solution effort results, etc. and list them below.
Note:
The medicine is "Libertango " arranged for violin and played by Ikuko Kawai, violinist and professor in Osaka University of Fine Arts and Music. Somebody named the medicine as "cutting-edge Japanese elegance".
(Omitted)
Some search was made about Shell. Shell has actively tackled with hydrogen and fuel cells, and established “Shell Hydrogen” in 1999. The company drew up “Energy Scenario 2050”. It seems that the company is going ahead with the hydrogen/fuel cell development and business according to the scenario. Shell is the second largest oil major in the world.
(Omitted)
*************
Below is the original text.
Let's deliver energy for a changing world. Let's go.
Today's consumers are smarter than ever about energy. Naturally they want it to heat, cool and light their homes, get them to work, and power their mobile phones. But they are also keen to help build an energy system that sustains the lives of future generations. They want their energy to come from cleaner sources. They want to get the most out of every drop. And they want to see positive results now.
At Shell, we're listening. Consumers' raised expectations inspire us to come up with ever more innovative products and services.
Take the quest for cleaner air in our cities. We have created a fuel oil which can cut soot emissions from factories by up to 75%. That should help people breathe a little easier.
Customers at our service stations want to play their part, too. They want fuels that are more efficient. We've responded with new blends that help drivers save fuel with every fill-up. And we're working with transport companies, combining the latest fuels and lubricants with satellite technology to reduce fuel consumption.
Low-carbon biofuels are another way to meet rising expectations. They can help reduce emissions from road transport right now. We're already the world's largest distributor of biofuels and are pursuing plans for large-scale production. We're also working with technical partners to develop future biofuels from non-food sources, like crop residue and even algae.
Of course, our customers' horizons stretch beyond transport to more responsible living, whether through cleaner electricity or more energy-efficient homes and offices.
That's why we are boosting production of cleaner-burning natural gas, which emits less than half the carbon dioxide of coal when used to generate electricity. And why we are investing in vital technology to capture emissions from power plants and other industrial sites and store it safely underground.
Despite all this change, one thing remains the same. After more than a century, our customers still expect reliable and affordable energy every day.
With global energy demand set to double by mid-century, that will be a challenge. But together with our partners we will continue unlocking energy from hard-to-reach places like frozen Siberia and delivering it to customers around the world.
At Shell, we're grateful to have millions of customers asking for better energy. They demand as much of us as we ask of ourselves.
Together, let's go the extra mile.
www.shell.com/letsgo
The email arrived from TIME. It seemed like a PR email. I guess there are many people having received the same emails as the one I received. The opened email tells about Shell’s attitude to CO2 emission reduction problem, the results of company’s activities having come to grips with the problem, and the activities being done and to be done for solving the problem.
I felt something different when reading the email message, carefully read it, and found that the sentences were refined giving off a faint smell of emotion.
Simple linear extension of the logic of the sentence results only in unnatural Japanese.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan]
If I translate the original into Japanese, the Japanese produced will fail to reach the sentence level of the original. The reason is that my Japanese may have an imaginary-part vector aplasia disease. No matter how much I listen to a new medicine, which seems likely to be good for the disease, much time is needed till it works for my disease.
So, I give up to translate the email message into Japanese, and instead of translation, pick up Shell’s problem solution effort results, etc. and list them below.
Note:
The medicine is "Libertango " arranged for violin and played by Ikuko Kawai, violinist and professor in Osaka University of Fine Arts and Music. Somebody named the medicine as "cutting-edge Japanese elegance".
(Omitted)
Some search was made about Shell. Shell has actively tackled with hydrogen and fuel cells, and established “Shell Hydrogen” in 1999. The company drew up “Energy Scenario 2050”. It seems that the company is going ahead with the hydrogen/fuel cell development and business according to the scenario. Shell is the second largest oil major in the world.
(Omitted)
*************
Below is the original text.
Let's deliver energy for a changing world. Let's go.
Today's consumers are smarter than ever about energy. Naturally they want it to heat, cool and light their homes, get them to work, and power their mobile phones. But they are also keen to help build an energy system that sustains the lives of future generations. They want their energy to come from cleaner sources. They want to get the most out of every drop. And they want to see positive results now.
At Shell, we're listening. Consumers' raised expectations inspire us to come up with ever more innovative products and services.
Take the quest for cleaner air in our cities. We have created a fuel oil which can cut soot emissions from factories by up to 75%. That should help people breathe a little easier.
Customers at our service stations want to play their part, too. They want fuels that are more efficient. We've responded with new blends that help drivers save fuel with every fill-up. And we're working with transport companies, combining the latest fuels and lubricants with satellite technology to reduce fuel consumption.
Low-carbon biofuels are another way to meet rising expectations. They can help reduce emissions from road transport right now. We're already the world's largest distributor of biofuels and are pursuing plans for large-scale production. We're also working with technical partners to develop future biofuels from non-food sources, like crop residue and even algae.
Of course, our customers' horizons stretch beyond transport to more responsible living, whether through cleaner electricity or more energy-efficient homes and offices.
That's why we are boosting production of cleaner-burning natural gas, which emits less than half the carbon dioxide of coal when used to generate electricity. And why we are investing in vital technology to capture emissions from power plants and other industrial sites and store it safely underground.
Despite all this change, one thing remains the same. After more than a century, our customers still expect reliable and affordable energy every day.
With global energy demand set to double by mid-century, that will be a challenge. But together with our partners we will continue unlocking energy from hard-to-reach places like frozen Siberia and delivering it to customers around the world.
At Shell, we're grateful to have millions of customers asking for better energy. They demand as much of us as we ask of ourselves.
Together, let's go the extra mile.
www.shell.com/letsgo
2010年5月21日金曜日
ACAL Energy Completes Funding Round - 3.5 million Pounds Raised in First Close -
!! Adsense Ads are removed from this page because Adsense's relevance is lost !!
Cheshire, UK - May 19th 2010 - ACAL Energy, the developer of affordable and reliable Fuel Cell Engines based on platinum free FlowCathR technology, has completed a funding round worth ￡3.5 million that will provide a strong boost to the development of its core FlowCathR technology. Additional investment funds are expected in a second close later this summer.
The funding has been raised from existing investors, led by Carbon Trust Investments and supported by Solvay SA, Porton Capital and a leading Japanese automotive corporation. The funds will be used to complete development of ACAL Energy’s ground breaking FlowCathR platinum-free cathode technology and introduce first commercial offerings. An OEM evaluation kit is planned for availability later this year and a first Fuel Cell Engine product incorporating FlowCathR will be sampled to prospective customers in 2011.
ACAL Energy believes its FlowCathR technology is ready for application in small and medium sized stationary power applications, replacing diesel generators in back-up power systems, combined heat and power (CHP) installations and remote power uses. Larger-scale stationary power and transport applications are planned for the future.
“This further investment by our institutional financial and strategic investors is a strong endorsement of our technology and our Company”, says Dr SB Cha, CEO of ACAL Energy. “It recognises our recent progress and the significant market potential we see for low cost, reliable fuel cell engines.
Jonathan Bryers, Partner at CT Investment Partners said “We are delighted to be leading a further investment round into ACAL Energy following extensive technical and cost due diligence and welcome the continued support of Solvay and our other co-investors. We are excited at the opportunity we see with ACAL Energy as a UK clean energy technology company that can provide breakthrough cost and performance benefits in an internationally competitive field”.
Over the last year, ACAL Energy has achieved several important milestones, including achieving a peak power density of nearly 800mW/cm2, the development of new, potentially higher performance chemical systems, and the scale up from a 50W integrated system to a 1.5kW laboratory demonstration system. In March, a model hydrogen fuel cell system was launched to great acclaim at Japan’s FC EXPO.
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
For further information, please contact Amanda Lyne at ACAL Energy:
Tel: +44 (0)1928 511581
E-mail : alyne@acalenergy.co.uk
About ACAL Energy Limited
ACAL Energy is a developer of a new fuel cell technology that will enable low cost and highly reliable fuel cell systems for a wide variety of applications. The company was founded in August 2004 by FlowCathR inventor Dr Andrew Creeth and is headquartered in Runcorn, UK. FlowCathR is a registered trademark of ACAL Energy Ltd.
2010年5月18日火曜日
Dual Functional Lithium-Water Battery - Generates Hydrogen & Electricity -
Large-scale and big money consuming-infrastructure is essential for the hydrogen transportation/storage for FCVs. This is a serious problem.
A significantly improved lithium-water battery has been developed recently.
This battery is one of the effective solutions to the problem. The battery generates hydrogen and electricity simultaneously.
The new lithium-water battery generates hydrogen and electricity through its discharging operation, although it is still in the laboratory level. It is noted that if the ionic conductivity of the separator (solid electrolyte) of the battery is increased and the operating temperature is increased, the hydrogen generation capability of the battery will be increased several tens times when compared with that of the battery used for demonstration test.
>> More
A significantly improved lithium-water battery has been developed recently.
This battery is one of the effective solutions to the problem. The battery generates hydrogen and electricity simultaneously.
The new lithium-water battery generates hydrogen and electricity through its discharging operation, although it is still in the laboratory level. It is noted that if the ionic conductivity of the separator (solid electrolyte) of the battery is increased and the operating temperature is increased, the hydrogen generation capability of the battery will be increased several tens times when compared with that of the battery used for demonstration test.
>> More
2010年5月13日木曜日
Tokuyama Constructs Trial Production Lines for FC Electrolyte Membranes
!! Adsense Ads are removed from this page because Adsense's relevance is lost !!
Tokuyama has a plan to construct trial production lines, which will trially manufacture electrolyte membranes for direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) and anion electrolyte membranes.
Place: Tokuyama Factory (Yamaguchi prefecture)
Time to start construction: Spring of the next year
Production Scale: 10,000 m square/year
Advantageous features:
***************
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more in English, feel free to contact at newene02"abc" fcpat-japan.com
Please replace "abc" with "@".
We don't accept free-mail addresses.
Please understand that our special circumstances cause us to do so.
FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/
Tokuyama has a plan to construct trial production lines, which will trially manufacture electrolyte membranes for direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) and anion electrolyte membranes.
Place: Tokuyama Factory (Yamaguchi prefecture)
Time to start construction: Spring of the next year
Production Scale: 10,000 m square/year
Advantageous features:
***************
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To learn more in English, feel free to contact at newene02"abc" fcpat-japan.com
Please replace "abc" with "@".
We don't accept free-mail addresses.
Please understand that our special circumstances cause us to do so.
FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/
2010年5月6日木曜日
High-Pressure Hydrogen Gas Hose, Not Using Steel Wires
!!Adsense Ads are removed from this page
because Adsense's relevance is lost!!
Yokohama Rubber and Iwatani Industrial Gases have successfully co-developed a hose for the 70 MPa hydrogen gas dispenser. The hose name is “ibar HG70”. A major feature of the hose is that the steel wires are not used for reinforcing layer of the hose.
The following advantages result from the fact that the steel wires are not used:
1) The hose is free from the hydrogen embrittlement.
The hydrogen embrittlement inevitably occurs in the conventional hose using the steel wires.
2) The hose is flexible and light (in weight), and easy handling and refueling.
Yokohama Rubber and Iwatani Industrial Gases had already succeeded in co-developing a 35 Mpa hydrogen gas hose (ibar HG35) in 2006.
Those high-pressure hydrogen gas hoses were developed under contract with NEDO. Both companies have continued the research and development in the hydrogen gas sector, and presented many excellent results by using their proprietary technologies to full advantage.
*************
Yokohama Rubber
Iwatani Industrial Gases
The above topic is described in somewhat more detail in my site.
If interested, please visit here.
2010年5月3日月曜日
Next Generation Vehicle Deployment Plans in Japan – Till 2030 -
!!Adsense Ads are removed from this page because Adsense's relevance is lost!!
METI has recently released a report describing deployment plans for the next generation vehicles, incumbent vehicles and their related industries up to 2030. The plans contain the target numbers of the next generation vehicles, which are likely to be used, and strategic plans, and action plans to execute the strategies, and load maps for some of the strategies, which contain time-arranged activities to be taken for achieving the goals.
In the action plans, the target numbers of the next generation vehicles are set to be larger than expected. The ratios of the next generation vehicles to the new vehicles sold in percentage term are 20 to 80% in 2020 and 50 to 70% in 2030. Those figures are not small.
The figures representative of the fuel cell vehicle listed are negligible. The report never ignores the FCV, however.
In a vehicle-size vs. cruising distance chart, the FCV is located in a region defined by the largest vehicle size and the longest cruising distance. The chart implies that the fuel cell vehicle will be infallibly employed for the long-cruising next generation vehicle of large size.
The report says: “The technology of the fuel cell vehicle is essential to diversify the fuels used in the transportation sector” in “Fuel Diversification” of the report.
The negligible figures will result from the conclusion produced when the fact that the FCV is under development and difficulty of building the hydrogen transportation and refueling infrastructure are taken into account.
In this connection, the unique technology has been developed by Hrein energy. The technology is capable of storing hydrogen in the form of an organic hydride, transporting the organic hydride, and removing hydrogen from the organic hydride for refueling. The organic hydride can be handled like gasoline and petroleum. The current filling station infrastructure can be directly used for refueling hydrogen vehicles.
I always think why this technology is not discussed for the building cost reduction of the hydrogen infrastructure.
For more detail, read the METI’s press release. If any question, please ask METI or feel free to contact us [NewEne01@fcpat-japan.com or Newene01@gmail.com].
My site refers mainly to the FCV descriptions excerpted from the report. If interested, please visit my site.
METI has recently released a report describing deployment plans for the next generation vehicles, incumbent vehicles and their related industries up to 2030. The plans contain the target numbers of the next generation vehicles, which are likely to be used, and strategic plans, and action plans to execute the strategies, and load maps for some of the strategies, which contain time-arranged activities to be taken for achieving the goals.
In the action plans, the target numbers of the next generation vehicles are set to be larger than expected. The ratios of the next generation vehicles to the new vehicles sold in percentage term are 20 to 80% in 2020 and 50 to 70% in 2030. Those figures are not small.
The figures representative of the fuel cell vehicle listed are negligible. The report never ignores the FCV, however.
In a vehicle-size vs. cruising distance chart, the FCV is located in a region defined by the largest vehicle size and the longest cruising distance. The chart implies that the fuel cell vehicle will be infallibly employed for the long-cruising next generation vehicle of large size.
The report says: “The technology of the fuel cell vehicle is essential to diversify the fuels used in the transportation sector” in “Fuel Diversification” of the report.
The negligible figures will result from the conclusion produced when the fact that the FCV is under development and difficulty of building the hydrogen transportation and refueling infrastructure are taken into account.
In this connection, the unique technology has been developed by Hrein energy. The technology is capable of storing hydrogen in the form of an organic hydride, transporting the organic hydride, and removing hydrogen from the organic hydride for refueling. The organic hydride can be handled like gasoline and petroleum. The current filling station infrastructure can be directly used for refueling hydrogen vehicles.
I always think why this technology is not discussed for the building cost reduction of the hydrogen infrastructure.
For more detail, read the METI’s press release. If any question, please ask METI or feel free to contact us [NewEne01@fcpat-japan.com or Newene01@gmail.com].
My site refers mainly to the FCV descriptions excerpted from the report. If interested, please visit my site.
2010年4月19日月曜日
Infrequent Updating of My Blog & Site
!! Adsense Ad is removed from this page because Adsense's relevance is lost!!
My site/blogs updating has been infrequent recently.
The following two accidents occurred and much time was and has been consumed to cope with them.
1. My computer had been on the blink since the virus attack occurred on the later part of this February. This computer trouble has been sovled, however.
2. In the computer adjustment work, the data transfer was done many times.
The result is that the home page building software acted up.
I will start again the site and blogs in near future. Please be patient.
My site/blogs updating has been infrequent recently.
The following two accidents occurred and much time was and has been consumed to cope with them.
1. My computer had been on the blink since the virus attack occurred on the later part of this February. This computer trouble has been sovled, however.
2. In the computer adjustment work, the data transfer was done many times.
The result is that the home page building software acted up.
I will start again the site and blogs in near future. Please be patient.
2010年4月6日火曜日
Hybrid field motor for next generation vehicles - Rare-earth Used is halved in Amount -
Key words:
Hybrid field motor, saved rare-earths, next generation vehicles, permanent magnets, electromagnets, output density, SMC, soft magnetic composites, motor core, rare-earth-dependency free technology
**********
A unique hybrid field motor used for the next generation vehicles has been successfully developed by Assistant Professor Dr. Kosaka (Nagoya Institute of Technology). The new hybrid field motor is featured by: 1) use amount of permanent magnet is halved when compared with of the incumbent motor used by the current hybrid vehicle. 2) the output density is high, and 3) the motor core was made of SMC（soft magnetic composites ）which has rarely been used for the core.
Most of the motors used for the next generation vehicles are being vigorously developed in many countries. Most of the motors used for current hybrid vehicles are IPMSMs. IPMSM = interior permanent magnet synchronous motor。
The motor uses the permanent magnet as literally indicated.
The permanent magnet uses rare earths. The countries which mine and sell the rare earths are limited in number.
The necessity of developing the technology to extricate from the situation essentially needing such rare earths for motor construction is essential when taking into account the difficulty of securing rare-earths, and real commercialization and rapid increase of the number of the next generation vehicles. See “Extract from dependency of rare-metals and rare-earths”.
The hybrid field motor as one of the technologies to extract from rare-earth dependency is now being actively developed in many countries. The hybrid field motor is constructed such that the permanent magnet and the electromagnet are combined to cooperatively generate magnetic force required for motor turn. Such a construction allows significant reduction of the use amount of the permanent magnet.
Kosaka et al focused their attention on the nature of soft magnetic composite, for example, excellent formability and workability, and used it for making the motor core. Few examples of using the SMC for the core have been reported. The researches created an SMC motor structure having a 3-D magnetic circuit. The unique motor structure was designed with the aid of the computer which operates based on 3D-FEM to successfully provide an optimum motor structure.
For more detail, visit here.
If any question, please ask NEDO or NewEne01@gmail.com
Hybrid field motor, saved rare-earths, next generation vehicles, permanent magnets, electromagnets, output density, SMC, soft magnetic composites, motor core, rare-earth-dependency free technology
**********
A unique hybrid field motor used for the next generation vehicles has been successfully developed by Assistant Professor Dr. Kosaka (Nagoya Institute of Technology). The new hybrid field motor is featured by: 1) use amount of permanent magnet is halved when compared with of the incumbent motor used by the current hybrid vehicle. 2) the output density is high, and 3) the motor core was made of SMC（soft magnetic composites ）which has rarely been used for the core.
Most of the motors used for the next generation vehicles are being vigorously developed in many countries. Most of the motors used for current hybrid vehicles are IPMSMs. IPMSM = interior permanent magnet synchronous motor。
The motor uses the permanent magnet as literally indicated.
The permanent magnet uses rare earths. The countries which mine and sell the rare earths are limited in number.
The necessity of developing the technology to extricate from the situation essentially needing such rare earths for motor construction is essential when taking into account the difficulty of securing rare-earths, and real commercialization and rapid increase of the number of the next generation vehicles. See “Extract from dependency of rare-metals and rare-earths”.
The hybrid field motor as one of the technologies to extract from rare-earth dependency is now being actively developed in many countries. The hybrid field motor is constructed such that the permanent magnet and the electromagnet are combined to cooperatively generate magnetic force required for motor turn. Such a construction allows significant reduction of the use amount of the permanent magnet.
Kosaka et al focused their attention on the nature of soft magnetic composite, for example, excellent formability and workability, and used it for making the motor core. Few examples of using the SMC for the core have been reported. The researches created an SMC motor structure having a 3-D magnetic circuit. The unique motor structure was designed with the aid of the computer which operates based on 3D-FEM to successfully provide an optimum motor structure.
For more detail, visit here.
If any question, please ask NEDO or NewEne01@gmail.com
2010年3月15日月曜日
Clean Energy US Patents in 2009, Increased by 20%
The fourth quarter of 2009 for the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index (CEPGI) was issued by Cleantech Group of Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C.
1) The number of patents granted in the clean energy sector has rapidly increased
2) The number of the granted patents in the automobile sub-sector is much larger than those in the remaining sub-sectors. The figure is outstanding.
3) Honda is still strong in the clean energy sector.
4) GE, one of major companies in the U.S., is actively developing the clean energy technologies, including particularly the wind power technology.
****************
Results through the fourth quarter of 2009 reveal the CEPGI for 2009 to be at its highest level in the eight year period of its tracking at 1125 granted patents, up over 20 percent (about 200 patents).
Patents in fuel cells and hybrid/electric vehicles were each up over twenty percent over 2008 with solar patents up sixty percent and biomass/biofuel energy patents up two hundred sixty percent. Fuel Cells, wind, and biomass/biofuel energy patents were also at all time highs in 2009. In contrast, hydroelectric and tidal patents decreased in 2009 while geothermal patents were up only one patent over the year prior.
Honda again claimed the Clean Energy Patent crown in 2009 by edging General Motors out by four patents. Honda leads overall since 2002 and automobile companies occupy 5 of the top ten patent leader spots since 2002.
GE made the top ten in 2009 continuing its strong showing in clean energy patents having over twice the patents of its nearest wind patent competitor, Aloys Wobben, the owner of Enercon GmbH of Germany.
The original text is put on my site. If interested, visit here.
1) The number of patents granted in the clean energy sector has rapidly increased
2) The number of the granted patents in the automobile sub-sector is much larger than those in the remaining sub-sectors. The figure is outstanding.
3) Honda is still strong in the clean energy sector.
4) GE, one of major companies in the U.S., is actively developing the clean energy technologies, including particularly the wind power technology.
****************
Results through the fourth quarter of 2009 reveal the CEPGI for 2009 to be at its highest level in the eight year period of its tracking at 1125 granted patents, up over 20 percent (about 200 patents).
Patents in fuel cells and hybrid/electric vehicles were each up over twenty percent over 2008 with solar patents up sixty percent and biomass/biofuel energy patents up two hundred sixty percent. Fuel Cells, wind, and biomass/biofuel energy patents were also at all time highs in 2009. In contrast, hydroelectric and tidal patents decreased in 2009 while geothermal patents were up only one patent over the year prior.
Honda again claimed the Clean Energy Patent crown in 2009 by edging General Motors out by four patents. Honda leads overall since 2002 and automobile companies occupy 5 of the top ten patent leader spots since 2002.
GE made the top ten in 2009 continuing its strong showing in clean energy patents having over twice the patents of its nearest wind patent competitor, Aloys Wobben, the owner of Enercon GmbH of Germany.
The original text is put on my site. If interested, visit here.
2010年3月4日木曜日
Research Report on Japan Fuel Cell Market in 2009, Published by Fuji-Keizai
Fuji-Keizai Ltd. carried out the market research on the Japan Fuel Cell market in 2009 and its related market, and published the fuel cell research report, entitled “Future Outlook for Fuel Cell Related Technologies and Market: 2010 Vol.1”.
The essentials of the market research report are:
1) The residential fuel-cell cogeneration or CHP systems will steadily grow.
2) The real market of the FCVs will start in around 2015. After 2020, the FCVs will lead the whole fuel cell market forward.
3) The automobile sub-sector and the home sub-sector have the market share of 92%. The shipments of the fuel cell systems in those sub-sectors will rapidly increase.
４）When the portable fuel cells reach a predetermined amount of shipments, the market will grow since a variety of products use the batteries.
It is not denied that there are many people who deny and have doubts about the relation between co2 increase and the global warming increase. It is believed that the fuel cell is a typical implementation of the renewable power generation technology, and is the device indispensable to the fossil energy substitution. In this sense, much efforts to develop the fuel cell technology for its commercialization must be continuously made particularly from the point of view of the government energy policy. It seems that the residential fuel-cell CHP systems will be market competitive in around 2015, and the market is expected to expand at high rate. At least Panasonic has explicitly expressed that the company will export the FC CHP systems in the future. I hope that the shipments of the residential fuel-cell CHP systems will increase to be in excess of the expected one.
>> To learn more and if interested, please visit here.
The essentials of the market research report are:
1) The residential fuel-cell cogeneration or CHP systems will steadily grow.
2) The real market of the FCVs will start in around 2015. After 2020, the FCVs will lead the whole fuel cell market forward.
3) The automobile sub-sector and the home sub-sector have the market share of 92%. The shipments of the fuel cell systems in those sub-sectors will rapidly increase.
４）When the portable fuel cells reach a predetermined amount of shipments, the market will grow since a variety of products use the batteries.
It is not denied that there are many people who deny and have doubts about the relation between co2 increase and the global warming increase. It is believed that the fuel cell is a typical implementation of the renewable power generation technology, and is the device indispensable to the fossil energy substitution. In this sense, much efforts to develop the fuel cell technology for its commercialization must be continuously made particularly from the point of view of the government energy policy. It seems that the residential fuel-cell CHP systems will be market competitive in around 2015, and the market is expected to expand at high rate. At least Panasonic has explicitly expressed that the company will export the FC CHP systems in the future. I hope that the shipments of the residential fuel-cell CHP systems will increase to be in excess of the expected one.
>> To learn more and if interested, please visit here.
2010年2月24日水曜日
NTM Sensors announces a new product - SenseH2tm Hydrogen Sensor
NTM Sensors, a newly created division of NexTech Materials, Ltd., is pleased to announce a new hydrogen sensor, SenseH2tm. With the tag line “We sense a GREEN future” NTM Sensors intends to introduce several new products aimed at reduction of greenhouse gas and polluting emissions.
NTM Sensors will make its debut at the Fuel Cell Expo in Japan on March 3rd where it will be accepting orders for the SenseH2tm products. Dr. Lora Thrun, Director of Commercialization, recently commented that “… this innovative product represents a significant leap forward in hydrogen sensing technology, and we are looking forward to its imminent release and commercial success.”
Our first commercialized volume product, the SenseH2tm , has been extensively beta tested for PEM fuel cell related applications, including forklift trucks, back-up power systems and electrolyzers. The sensor is a turn-key solution for many applications. It includes a patent pending chemi-resistive sensor element, electronic controls, and an electronic signal output that is calibrated to measure hydrogen content in air, by providing a voltage output corresponding to 0 to 100% of the lower flammability limit (LFL). It offers a unique combination of features: high selectivity to hydrogen over other combustible gases and VOCs, rapid response and recovery, insensitivity to humidity, and linear and repeatable output corresponding to a broad range of hydrogen concentrations.
NTM Sensor products are available directly through NTMSensors.com and through NexTech’s sales distribution network. NexTech currently has distributors in South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Europe and is continuing to expand its distribution network throughout the world.
About NTM Sensors
NTM Sensors’ vision is to be a global supplier of technologically advanced gas sensors. We will achieve this by productizing sensor innovations for energy and environmental markets. By leveraging NexTech’s innovation, product development and manufacturing talents, we provide robust, cost effective solutions to customers in diverse markets. For more information please visit our website www.ntmsensors.com.
About NexTech Materials, Ltd.
NexTech was founded as a privately held company in 1994 and has grown into one of Ohio’s leading technology companies. NexTech recently expanded its manufacturing and R&D facilities located in Lewis Center Ohio. NexTech has many products in its pipeline including fuel cell stacks for military and residential power applications, sensors for gas detection and control systems, catalysts for energy conversion systems, and membranes for gas separation devices. For more information, please visit our web site www.nextechmaterials.com.
# # #
Contact:
Mr. Rick Lesueur
rhl@NTMSensors.com
(614) 842-6606, extension 128
NTM Sensors, A division of NexTech Materials
404 Enterprise Drive, Lewis Center, OH 43035
[Copyright by FuelCell japan: http://www.fcpat-japan.com/]
To read this in Japanese, please visit here.
2010年1月12日火曜日
ACAL Energy Leads Field Demonstration of Platinum-Free Cathode Fuel Cell System
Cheshire, UK – 11th January 2010 -- ACAL Energy Ltd, the developer of affordable and reliable fuel cell systems, is leading a collaborative project to build the world’s first installed system using FlowCath® fuel cell technology in a practical application. The project represents an investment of £1.9 million and has been awarded funding by the Technology Strategy Board. It will see a fully operational demonstration system of a FlowCath® fuel cell unit installed at Solvay Interox’s large industrial site at Warrington, Cheshire, and will be a major step on the commercialisation road map for this innovative technology.
Joining ACAL Energy as partners on the project are: Solvay Interox Ltd, Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells, UPS Systems plc, the Centre for Process Innovation, the University of Southampton and the Manufacturing Engineering Centre at Cardiff University.
ACAL Energy and its partners will develop and operate a suitably sized, low cost FlowCath® fuel cell unit to provide continuous electrical power to a remote environmental monitoring system within the chemical manufacturing plant. The project commenced 1st December 2009, with the build and installation taking place in the second half of 2010. Ultimately, fuel cell systems utilizing FlowCath® will be a clean and economically sensible alternative to diesel and gasoline generators in stationary and transportation applications requiring 1kW to 200kW of electrical power.
ACAL Energy’s FlowCath® technology replaces the platinum catalyst on the cathode in a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell with a low cost, durable liquid chemical. This will significantly reduce the overall platinum content, as much of the platinum in conventional PEM fuel cells is used in the cathode. ACAL Energy has developed a family of proprietary chemical compounds that deliver the same level of fuel cell power density as today’s platinum cathode systems. Further increases in power density are forecast in the future. The technology also significantly reduces the balance of plant costs by eliminating the need for hydration, pressurization, separate cooling and other expensive mechanical sub-systems commonly found in conventional PEM fuel cells.
“Field demonstration of our FlowCath® technology is a very important milestone for the company”, said Dr SB Cha, Chief Executive Officer of ACAL Energy. “This application requires the unit to run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will be an excellent example of the robustness and reliability of our low cost fuel cell technology. We are delighted to be part of a world-class project team and we are grateful to the UK Technology Strategy Board for their strong support.”
For further information, please contact Amanda Lyne at ACAL Energy:
Tel: +44 (0)1928 511581
E-mail : alyne@acalenergy.co.uk
Related links:
1) http://www.fcpat-japan.com/index.html
2) http://blog.goo.ne.jp/fcjggi
2010年1月6日水曜日
SRM becomes competitive with IPMSM in performance
SRM = switched reluctance motor
IPMSM = interior permanent magnet synchronous motor
**************
The SRM technology developed this time is innovative.
IPMSM is currently used for called electrically or motor driven vehicles (EV, HEV, FCV) and others. It is a synchronous motor in which permanent magnets are buried in the rotor. It has many advantages. Its disadvantage is that the permanent magnet used contains rareearth(s).
It is said that China almost dominantly mines and export the rare earths at present, and has a plan to reduce the amount of the rare earths exported to 1/5 of the current one.
The motor-driven vehicles and the wind power generators will form a core business in near future market. The number of the motors used for them will increase depicting a steeply ascending curve. From this, it is clear that we must be faced with a vexed problem that the demand of the motors considerably increases, while the supply of the rare earths considerably decreases.
The SRM considerably improved is a synchronous motor not using the permanent magnet (rareearths). It has advantages of simple structure, excellent heat resistance and high rigidity, but it is inferior to the IPMSM in the torque and energy utilization efficiency. The disadvantages have prevented the SRM from being applied to the motor-driven vehicles. Where the SRM is designed to produce the performance comparable with that of the IPMSM, its size is too large to mount it on the vehicle.
The performance of the new SRM reached that of the IPMSM, and its some characteristics exceeded those of the SRM.
Co-developed by:
Prof. Akira Chiba et al (Tokyo University of Science) and Pro. Satoshi Ogasawara et al (Hokkaido University).
>> More
IPMSM = interior permanent magnet synchronous motor
**************
The SRM technology developed this time is innovative.
IPMSM is currently used for called electrically or motor driven vehicles (EV, HEV, FCV) and others. It is a synchronous motor in which permanent magnets are buried in the rotor. It has many advantages. Its disadvantage is that the permanent magnet used contains rareearth(s).
It is said that China almost dominantly mines and export the rare earths at present, and has a plan to reduce the amount of the rare earths exported to 1/5 of the current one.
The motor-driven vehicles and the wind power generators will form a core business in near future market. The number of the motors used for them will increase depicting a steeply ascending curve. From this, it is clear that we must be faced with a vexed problem that the demand of the motors considerably increases, while the supply of the rare earths considerably decreases.
The SRM considerably improved is a synchronous motor not using the permanent magnet (rareearths). It has advantages of simple structure, excellent heat resistance and high rigidity, but it is inferior to the IPMSM in the torque and energy utilization efficiency. The disadvantages have prevented the SRM from being applied to the motor-driven vehicles. Where the SRM is designed to produce the performance comparable with that of the IPMSM, its size is too large to mount it on the vehicle.
The performance of the new SRM reached that of the IPMSM, and its some characteristics exceeded those of the SRM.
Co-developed by:
Prof. Akira Chiba et al (Tokyo University of Science) and Pro. Satoshi Ogasawara et al (Hokkaido University).
>> More
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