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The next step in hydrogen fuel cell transformation? Researchers from Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa University of Science and Technology have collaborated with the University of Manchester to produce a device that uses graphene to support next-generation tech in hydrogen fuel cells, according to a press release.
SOUND SMART- A hydrogen fuel cell uses the chemical energy of hydrogen to produce energy. The energy produced is clean because the only products and byproducts are electricity, heat, and water. Whatever is produced can then be used for transportation, powering large systems such as power plants, and stepping in as emergency power.
How does it work? The device allows the researchers to control the conductivity and precision of graphene’s properties via a technique called “double gating” that influences proton-conduction. This way, the research can be applied to the design of proton-conducting membranes used in hydrogen fuel cells to optimize the technology, as well as catalysis, and isotope separation.
Hydrogen-fueled transport in the region is on the rise: The UAE’s Adnoc inaugurated the region’s first high-speed green hydrogen pilot refueling station — dubbed H2GO — to test a fleet of zero-emission hydrogen-powered vehicles last November. Saudi Arabia Railways also signed an MoU with Air Products Qudra last week to build, own, and operate hydrogen fueling stations for trains in the kingdom. Hyundai Moors signed an MoU with Korea Automotive Technology Institute, Air Products Qudra, and the Saudi Public Transport Company to establish and develop an ecosystem for hydrogen-based mobility in Saudi in October 2023.
