Scientists have discovered a method of making cubic zirconia with very small crystal sizes in a development which could pave the way for cheaper and more reliable hydrogen fuel cells.

A US team of researchers from UC Davis have found a way of making oxides on the order of 15 nanometres, at which scale the crystals prove to be efficient conductors of electricity.

When applied to fuel cells based on chemical oxides, the method could result in the mean operating temperature being reduced from the current rate of 800 to 1000 °C to just 50 to 100 °C.

In so doing, the damage done to platinum catalysts, which are harmed by the high temperatures, could be minimised.

Meanwhile, the fuel cell could reach working temperature quicker and in so doing prove to be more energy efficient and economical to run.

The scientists' research has been included on the shortlist for the Nano50 Awards 2007, which are due to be presented to winners at the National Nano Engineering Conference in Boston.

Source:

Fuel cell efficiency breakthrough short-listed for the Nano50 awards 2007, 10/07/07 http://www.fuelcelltoday.com/FuelCellToday/IndustryInformation/IndustryInformationExternal/NewsDisplayArticle/0,1602,9416,00.html

Nanocrystals Key to Better Fuel Cells, 10/07/07 http://www.allamericanpatriots.com/48726741_nanotechnology_nanocrystals_key_better_fuel_cells

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