Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center
Our mission is to promote and support the growth of an electrochemistry industry by
providing technological leadership with a vigorous program of research, development
and demonstration. By serving as a locus for academic talent of the highest caliber
and a non-profit site for the objective evaluation and improvement of industrial products,
our goal is to become a primary leader for the understanding and advancement of fuel
cell and electrolyzer technology.
Overview
We aim to help industry advance the technology and commercialization of electrocatalytic
processes by training graduate students and performing research within the areas of:
- fuel cell design and performance;
- hydrogen production by electrolysis of low-value feedstocks;
- hydrogen storage materials, devices, and distribution systems;
- electrolysis process design and performance;
- new catalysts for hydrogen production; and
- power conditioning and motor design
The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center is located in the Department of Chemical Engineering
in the Horizon I Building at the University of South Carolina. Our research center is
focused on the integrated study of electrolyzers and fuel cells. Electrolyzers have
a wide range of applications and are of interest for combined hydrogen and high-value
chemical production (e.g., SO2 and water to H2 and H2SO4). Fuel cells continue to show promise as a future power source for automobiles, residences
and commercial products. We work closely with industry to develop and advance electrocatalytic
processes that will serve companies all over the world.
Center Updates
BASF Partners with Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center
The chemical giant BASF, based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is collaborating with the
Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center at the University of South Carolina to explore and develop
new electrochemical synthesis methods for recycling industrial byproducts in simpler
and more economical ways. Another project involves the development of porous transport
layer in water electrolyzer system.
This partnership also draws on the expertise of Dr. Brian Benicewicz, known worldwide
for his work in polymers and polymer membranes.
New Collaboration with Lubrizol Corporation Begins
The Lubrizol Corporation, headquartered in Wickliffe, OH, has begun a new partnership
with the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center at the University of South Carolina on a project
to improve the performance and durability of fuel cells for both stationary and mobile
applications. Work will focus on improvements in durability of components of the fuel
cells, including both the membrane and electrode.
SRNL Continues to Support Dr. Shimpalee
Dr. Shimpalee is participating the recent awarded project from DoE Advance Manufacturing
Office to Savannah River National Laboratory. His team will develop multiscale modeling
of radio frequency reactor coupled catalyst Heating for ethylene production.
Partnership with General Motors Begins
General Motors Company awarded two years research project to develop microstructure
model for lithium-ion battery.
