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Research and InnovationFuture Fuels™ is the top research priority at the University. USC President Andrew Sorensen said, “The NSF’s confidence in the ability of USC researchers to lead the nation’s fuel cell initiative underscores the quality of research underway at the University.” USC is taking advantage of its strengths and intellectual assets by investing in them. New faculty, new facilities and research focus are recognized as keys to future success with the basic intention of enhancing economic development and academic reputation. Seven thrust areas have been identified in the area of Future Fuels™
as having the momentum and potential economic impact that could catapult
the state of South Carolina into the new economy – 1)
Software for Fuel Cells, 2) Hydrogen
Production/Electrolysis via High Temperatures, 3) Gaskets and Seals, 4)
Hydrogen Storage, 5) Economics of Fuel (CO2 and H2), 6)
Fuel from
Renewable Sources, and 7) Solid Oxide Fuel Cells. Focus in these areas
is reflected in current research being conducted at the University while
Current Research: H2 Production/Electrolysis via High Temperatures
Current Research: In complex polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, gaskets and seals perform crucial functions whereby they protect the fuel cell from leakage and a potentially harsh exterior environment. Proper seals reduce the amount of potential waste generated by a fuel cell and help cut down on costs through increased efficiency. USC's research on cutting-edge gaskets and seals focuses on producing robust fuel cells with minimal leakage. H2 Storage USC has developed technologies that focus on hydrogen storage and release. These technologies deal with the difficult issue of storing hydrogen into a chemical form that is stable enough to put into motor vehicles. These technologies also provide mechanisms for releasing the hydrogen from the chemical form to provide an instantaneous source of hydrogen for rapid demand on cold start of any device requiring hydrogen gas.
Current Research: For years, economic boundaries have challenged the methods by which renewable fuel sources are produced for mass-market consumers. In 1999, the U.S. Department of Energy chose USC and four other academic and business entities to conduct research on economically efficient and environmentally sustainable fuel cells for eventual mass production. We are combining our engineering research with economical analysis to provide cost-efficient solutions for the next generation of renewable fuels.
Current Research: Reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels has led to financial and environmental consequences for our world society. The use of renewable biomass such as plants and crops could provide an environmentally-friendly and financially viable method for reducing dependence on fossil fuels. USC is researching the implementation of renewable energy sources.
Current Research: These fuel cells operate at high temperatures and generate energy by the oxidation of a fuel gas mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The benefit of solid oxide fuel cells is that the oxidation converts carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide, creating a safer environment for cells prone to carbon monoxide poisoning. These fuel cells exhibit high tolerance to sulfur contamination and are stable and efficient. Research in this area could revolutionize industrial electricity and heat generation.
Current Research: |
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