Spent nuclear fuel is anything but waste
The US lags behind other countries in nuclear fuel recycling due to unfounded concerns and myths. Reprocessing spent fuel can recover significant energy value and reduce high-level nuclear waste volume.
Search results for “Fuel Cells”
1,000+ results for "Fuel Cells"
Mimicking photosynthesis path to solar-derived hydrogen fuel
A Penn State materials chemist has developed an artificial system that mimics photosynthesis to produce solar-derived hydrogen fuel. However, the process remains inefficient and expensive due to recombination of electrons and limited lifetime of the system. The researcher aims to improve efficiency by modeling energy pathways and adjus...
A paperweight for platinum
Researchers created a new catalytic material that is harder, more chemically active, and provides stability for fuel cells. The material combines graphene with metal oxide nanoparticles, resulting in improved performance and durability.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 8, 2011
US does not have infrastructure to consume more ethanol
A Purdue University study finds the US is at a 'blending wall' for ethanol use, with insufficient infrastructure to increase production beyond current levels. Advances in next-generation biofuels, such as thermo-chemical biofuels, may provide a solution to meet federal renewable fuel standards.
Iowa State engineer and Goodrich partner to develop next-generation fuel nozzle diagnostic systems
A joint project between Iowa State University and Goodrich Corp. aims to develop advanced flow diagnostic tools for fuel nozzles in jet engines. The research uses techniques such as particle image velocimetry and molecular tagging velocimetry to analyze the uniformity, direction, temperature, and density of fuel droplets.
Study assesses nuclear power assumptions
A study reviews nuclear power economics and concludes that the current fuel cycle is unsustainable due to uncertainty about waste management. Reprocessing and recycling of spent fuel is an alternative, but its implementation is controversial due to proliferation risks and high costs.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 30, 2010
Novel fuel cell catalyst lowers need for precious metal
Researchers have developed a novel fuel cell catalyst that uses large spheres of gold instead of platinum, reducing the need for precious metals. The catalyst retains its converting power and produces electricity at top capacity for longer periods than traditional small-particle models.
Methane-powered laptops may be closer than you think
Researchers at Harvard University have made significant breakthroughs in methane-fueled solid-oxide fuel cells, reducing operating temperatures and costs. The development of platinum-free micro-SOFCs could enable the use of methane as a fuel source for laptops and portable electronics.
Technology uses auto exhaust heat to create electricity, boost mileage
A system is being developed to capture heat from a car's exhaust, reducing fuel consumption by up to 10% through thermoelectric generators. The technology uses heat difference to generate electricity, promising improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.
Getting bubbles out of fuel pumps
A team of researchers has developed a way to prevent cavitation damage in jet fuel pumps, essential components in modern aircraft. The study provides realistic data for computer models, enabling designers to create lighter, more efficient, and longer-lasting pumps.
New highly stable fuel-cell catalyst gets strength from its nano core
Scientists have developed a new fuel-cell catalyst with a palladium core that protects precious platinum and enhances its reactivity. The new catalyst maintains high levels of activity even after 100,000 cycles of testing, compared to conventional catalysts that lose nearly 70% of their reactivity.
Battling the force that wastes 1 out of every 10 gallons of gasoline in cars
Scientists are developing high-tech lubricants and additives to reduce engine friction, which wastes 1 in every 10 gallons of gasoline. These new materials could improve car fuel economy by 3-5 percent, reducing oil waste and energy consumption.
Fuel cells in operation: A closer look
Researchers used ambient-pressure XPS to examine every feature of a working solid oxide electrochemical cell, operating in an atmosphere of hydrogen and water vapor at high temperatures. This allowed for direct measurement of local chemical states and electric potentials at surfaces and interfaces during the cell's operation.
OU researchers selected by Navy
A University of Oklahoma research team will explore the biological stability of current and next-generation fuels, measuring their impact on biocorrosion activity. The five-year total grant aims to provide a scientific basis for assessing alternate fuels and mitigating fuel biodeterioration and biocorrosion problems.
Hydrogen fuel for thought
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a class of material known as metallacarborane that could store hydrogen at or better than benchmarks set by the US Department of Energy. The material has the potential to meet DOE storage goals for hydrogen fuel, which could be used in cars, fuel cells, and industry.
Researchers discover less expensive low-temperature catalyst for hydrogen purification
A new, less expensive catalyst for hydrogen purification has been discovered using platinum on standard support metal oxides. The research team developed a platinum-based catalyst that is highly active and stable at low temperatures, reducing the need for rare-earth elements like cerium.
Research aims to lighten load carried by soldiers
A University of California, Riverside researcher is leading a $6.25 million grant to develop fuel cells that could replace batteries with up to 80% less weight and increase device life by five times.
Synthetic fuels research aims to reduce oil dependence
Researchers at Purdue University are working on a project to develop a system for generating large quantities of synthetic fuel from agricultural wastes, other biomass or coal. The goal is to create a sustainable synthetic fuel economy by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and increasing the yield of liquid fuel.
J. Robert Selman to be awarded Grove Medal in recognition of a lifetime of work on fuel cells
J. Robert Selman, a leading expert in electrochemical engineering of batteries and fuel cells, will receive the prestigious Grove Medal for his valuable contributions to fuel cell technology. He has written over 135 journal papers and holds six patents, including those for phase change material in Li-ion batteries.
Fuel-efficiency formula needs cars wired with better brainpower, less vroom
A University of Michigan researcher proposes a 'revolution by evolution' to boost fuel efficiency in gasoline-powered cars. By prioritizing efficient combustion engines and hybrid drives, the target is to reach 52 mpg by 2025 and 74 mpg by 2035.
Fuel treatments reduce wildfire severity, tree mortality in Washington forests
A study found that fuel treatments can reduce fire severity and protect older trees desirable for their timber, wildlife, and carbon-storage value. The results showed nearly 60% of trees survived in stands with thinning plus fuel treatment, and three-quarters of larger trees survived.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalCanadian Journal of Forest Research·DateAug 25, 2010
New catalyst of platinum nanoparticles could lead to conk-out free, stable fuel cells
Scientists at Cornell University have discovered a new catalyst that could make fuel cells more stable and conk-out free, using platinum nanoparticles on titanium oxide with added tungsten. The material is more stable and less expensive than pure platinum, allowing it to work with hydrogen fuels containing up to 2% carbon monoxide.
Cow-a-bella -- making eco-friendly diesel fuel from butter
Scientists converted surplus butter into biodiesel, meeting most test standards for a biobased fuel source. Butter's fatty acid esters can be blended with existing biodiesel to increase supply.
BGU receives first US - Israel energy independence grant for light water reactor research
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have been awarded a US-Israel Energy Independence Partnership Grant to develop self-sustainable fuel cycles for light water reactors. The project aims to improve nuclear energy efficiency, reduce uranium enrichment needs, and extend available energy resources.
Mountain mice show adaptation to altitude
At high altitudes, mountain mice use more carbohydrates than fat to fuel exercise, saving oxygen and increasing energy yield. This adaptation allows them to thrive in low-oxygen environments.
Solid oxide fuel cells getting closer to the market
Researchers at Risoe National Laboratory and Topsoe Fuel Cell will create prototypes of solid oxide fuel cells that meet market standards by 2012. The new project focuses on improving cell performance, durability, and production processes to reduce costs and emissions.
SourceRisoe National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy, the Technical University of Denmark·DateJul 1, 2010
Turning off the air conditioning helps save fuel
A study by Empa found that car air conditioning systems account for up to 30% of fuel consumption in hot climates, but turning off the system when the temperature drops below 18°C can save two-thirds of this extra consumption. The study also found that diesel vehicles consume less fuel with air conditioning on than petrol engines.
SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 22, 2010
New process is promising for hydrogen fuel cell cars
Researchers develop hydrothermolysis process to store and generate hydrogen for fuel cells in cars, achieving 14% hydrogen yield at near-fuel-cell operating temperatures. The technology has the potential to significantly improve hydrogen storage efficiency and make it more practical for widespread adoption.
Brown chemists report promising advance in fuel-cell technology
Researchers have developed a unique core and shell nanoparticle that uses far less platinum yet performs more efficiently and lasts longer than commercially available pure-platinum catalysts. The new catalyst generates 12 times more current than existing models, offering a promising advance in fuel-cell technology.
Brookhaven Lab chemists receive patents for fuel-cell catalysts
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed three patents for fuel-cell catalysts that reduce costly platinum use and increase its effectiveness. The newly patented catalysts can greatly reduce the cost and increase the use of fuel cells in electric vehicles, making them a major source of clean energy.
Environmentally safe fuel cells may emerge from Air Force-funded MIT research
Scientists have created a new technology that converts chemical energy to fuel cells for micro-machines and sensors, saving energy and producing more power than smaller batteries. The thermopower wave devices use carbon nanotubes and are already generating attention due to their non-toxic nature.
Song receives ACS's Henry H. Storch Award in Fuel Chemistry
Chunshan Song has been awarded the Henry H. Storch Award in Fuel Chemistry by the American Chemical Society for his outstanding contributions to clean fuels and catalysis research. His work focuses on developing innovative methods for producing advanced thermally stable jet fuels and removing sulfur from liquid hydrocarbon fuels.
Fuel cells get up to speed with a new kind of platinum
Researchers have developed a new form of platinum that could make cheaper and more efficient fuel cells. The process, which uses a copper-platinum alloy, reduces the amount of platinum required in fuel cells from 100 grams to just 20 grams, potentially enabling widespread adoption.
Fossil-fuel subsidies hurting global environment, security
A study by David Victor finds that fossil-fuel subsidies undermine energy security and worsen the environment. Most subsidies are a waste of money, and their removal could provide $550 billion annually for more beneficial programs.
Food vs. fuel: MSU scientists say growing grain for food is more energy efficient
Using productive farmland to grow crops for food instead of fuel is more energy efficient, according to a new study by MSU scientists. No-till production was found to be the most energy-efficient system for growing grain for food or fuel production.
From bacteria to electricity: The future of green energy
Researchers have developed a microbial fuel cell that can generate electricity from mud and wastewater using the tiny Geobacter microbe, which uses its hair-like extensions to produce power. The technology has potential applications in powering autonomous underwater vehicles and tracking ocean life.
E20 fuel reduces carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions in automobiles
A new study by the Rochester Institute of Technology indicates that E20 fuel blends reduce tail pipe emissions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide without impacting vehicle drivability. The research found an average emissions reduction of 23% for carbon monoxide and 13% for hydrocarbon emissions compared to conventional gasoline.
Chicken house attics can be tapped to warm broilers
A study by the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service found that the air in broiler house attics can be as much as 20 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than outside, reducing the need for heating fuel. This technology uses ceiling inlets to circulate solar-heated attic air within the chicken houses.
Water oxidation advance boosts potential for solar fuel
Emory chemists develop most potent homogeneous catalyst for water oxidation, a crucial component for clean hydrogen fuel. The cobalt-based catalyst surpasses previous WOCs in selectivity, stability, and speed.
MIT researchers discover new way of producing electricity
Researchers at MIT have discovered a new phenomenon that causes powerful waves of energy to shoot through carbon nanotubes, enabling the production of electricity. The discovery has led to the creation of a system that produces energy about 100 times greater than an equivalent weight of lithium-ion battery.
New process yields high-energy-density, plant-based transportation fuel
A team of UW-Madison engineers has developed a highly efficient process that converts gamma-valerolactone into the chemical equivalent of jet fuel, preserving about 95% of the energy from biomass. The process requires little hydrogen input and captures carbon dioxide for future use.
Orange peels, newspapers may lead to cheaper, cleaner ethanol fuel
Researchers have created a method to convert non-food biomass into sugar, which is then fermented into ethanol. This approach produces significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions than traditional corn-based ethanol, offering a promising alternative for cleaner fuel production.
GOES-P all fueled up
The GOES-P spacecraft has been fueled and prepared for its 14-year orbit around the Earth. Engineers conducted propulsion system pressurization and leak checks to prevent fuel leaks. The launch vehicle is currently processing on stand, with a March 1 target date.
Advanced engine-control system reduces biodiesel fuel consumption and emissions
Researchers from Purdue University and Cummins Inc. developed an advanced engine-control system to reduce biodiesel fuel consumption and emissions. The system uses closed-loop control techniques to self-adjust engine settings based on feedback from sensors, improving fuel economy while minimizing nitrogen oxide emissions.
Characteristics of ultrafine particles from an engine fueled
This study investigates the effects of low sulfur diesel fuel on ultrafine particle emissions from a compression-ignition engine. The results show that the fuel reduces both mass concentration and number concentration of particles, which can help mitigate respiratory problems. The composition of nanoparticles emitted from ordinary dies...
NRL's Ion Tiger sets 26-hour flight endurance record
The Naval Research Laboratory's Ion Tiger has achieved a 26-hour flight duration, exceeding its previous record of 23 hours and 17 minutes. The fuel cell system provides reliable, quiet operation and extremely high efficiency, paving the way for tactical flights and extended flight times.
Developing 'green' tires that boost mileage and cut carbon dioxide emissions
Researchers have developed new tire materials that improve rolling resistance and reduce friction, boosting mileage and cutting CO2 emissions by up to 20%. The new technology, however, requires proper tire inflation to unlock its full potential.
Advanced nuclear fuel sets global performance record
Researchers achieved a world record by consuming approximately 19% of its low-enriched uranium, more than double the previous record. The advanced fuel design demonstrates robustness and safety, paving the way for commercial-scale HTGR fuel production.
Glimpsing a greener future
A University of California, Irvine computer model forecasts improved air quality in the Greater Los Angeles area if 75% of drivers switch to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles by 2060. The model suggests a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and lower levels of soot and ozone.
RIT scientist shines laser light on methane in pursuit of clean fuel
A new method using laser light can convert methane into methanol, producing a low-cost, clean fuel that could reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The process also yields hydrogen for fuel cells and other industrial applications.
U of C chemists discover recipe to design a better type of fuel cell
Researchers at U of C have discovered a new material that allows PEM fuel cells to work at higher temperatures, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. This breakthrough could make fuel cells cheaper to produce and more efficient.
Scientists to use artificial photosynthesis and nanotubes to generate hydrogen fuel with sunlight
Researchers at the University of Rochester are developing a system to derive usable hydrogen fuel from water using only sunlight. The team will investigate artificial photosynthesis and use three modules to optimize the process. The goal is to create a clean energy source that can be used in fuel cells for cars, homes, or power plants.
Ion Tiger fuel cell unmanned air vehicle completes 23-hour flight
The Ion Tiger fuel cell unmanned air vehicle has achieved an unprecedented 23-hour flight duration, making it a significant milestone in electric UAV technology. The aircraft's 550-Watt fuel cell system provides 7 times the energy of equivalent batteries, enabling long-endurance missions with reduced noise and signature.
Fill 'er up -- with algae
Researchers at North Carolina State University aim to create fuels that can be used in place of conventional diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel. They plan to genetically modify Dunaliella algae to produce fatty acids that can be converted into fuels, with the goal of creating a cost-competitive, renewable energy source.
New material could expand applications and lower costs for solid oxide fuel cells
The new BZCYYb material tolerates high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, resists carbon build-up, and can operate efficiently at low temperatures. Its development could lead to more compact and cost-effective solid oxide fuel cells with increased range of applications.
Clemson researchers study energy savings with electric cars and IntelliDrive technology
Researchers aim to optimize fuel consumption by integrating plug-in hybrid electric vehicles with roadside infrastructure, reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. They plan to provide drivers with alternative routes to maximize fuel economy.
New INL project tackles nuclear fuel recycling science
A new research project at Idaho National Laboratory will use an innovative approach to learn how to get more use from nuclear fuel. The team plans to put pure samples of common actinides into the Advanced Test Reactor, which will then be analyzed using accelerator mass spectroscopy.
MIT develops initial step toward carbon sequestration
Researchers at MIT have developed a pressurized oxy-fuel combustion system that reduces energy penalty and increases efficiency of carbon capture systems for power plants. The technology aims to make carbon sequestration more practical and affordable, helping to curb global climate change.
Smaller isn't always better: Catalyst simulations could lower fuel cell cost
University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have developed a computational model that optimizes fuel cell catalysts by increasing particle size, reducing degradation and extending the lifespan of fuel cells. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective fuel cells for widespread use.
Professors receive $2.5 million to better convert water into clean hydrogen fuel using sunlight
The researchers aim to discover new materials that can efficiently absorb sunlight and split water into clean hydrogen fuel, which could power cars and generate electricity. The project will focus on novel metal oxides as semiconductors, with the goal of creating cheap and abundant materials for sustainable energy production.