Rapidly developed 3D-printed hydrogen-generating fuel cell significantly boosts power for lighter aircraft models
The Monolithic Gyroidal Solid Oxide Cell (The Monolith), a groundbreaking fuel cell developed by the Technical University of Denmark, is set to revolutionise various industries with its impressive features and benefits.
The Monolith, a fully ceramic fuel cell, eliminates heavy metal components, making it more durable and suitable for demanding space missions such as NASA's Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment (MOXIE). Its lightweight design, combined with a high power-to-weight ratio, makes it particularly beneficial for aerospace applications.
The new fuel cell design is based on a mathematically optimized structure, specifically a gyroid, a triply periodic minimal surface. This innovative approach ensures the Monolith offers several advantages that could make it a "game-changer".
The Monolith's design improves heat distribution and increases mechanical stability. It is exceptionally powerful for its weight, producing over one watt per gram. Furthermore, the fuel cells, when used in electrolysis mode, are capable of producing hydrogen at a rate nearly ten times faster than standard models.
The high resilience of the new fuel cells is another key factor, as they withstand extreme conditions, including temperature swings of 100°C. No structural failure was noticed when the team repeatedly switched the fuel cell between power-generating and power-storing modes.
The Monolith's versatility extends to various industries, including hydrogen cars, hospitals, data centers, and ships. If used in the MOXIE project, the Monolith could perform the same task at a weight of just 800 kg, drastically reducing the cost of a space launch.
While the search results do not provide information about the company or individuals behind the development of the lightweight and high-performance 3D printed Solid Oxide Cells, the findings of this innovative fuel cell design were published in the journal Nature Energy.
The researchers believe the design can be further improved by using thinner electrolytes, cheaper current collectors, and more compact designs. With continuous advancements, the Monolith fuel cell promises to play a significant role in shaping the future of energy solutions.
Read also:
- Catastrophe at a U.S. Steel facility in Pennsylvania results in the loss of two lives. crucial details unveiled
- Auto Industry Updates: Geotab, C2A, Deloitte, NOVOSENSE, Soracom, and Panasonic in Focus
- North Carolina's food bank receives a solar energy upgrade as Republican legislators contemplate budget reductions
- Impact of COVID-19 on Poland's Ability to Achieve its 2020 Renewable Energy Target
