Our Vision
Hydrogen is potentially the ultimate energy source. Through a variety of benign processes, it can obtained from water or other compounds then stored as an efficient fuel for multiple applications. As an abundant replacement fuel, it will enable the United States to eliminate national concerns associated with importing oil. The Florida Institute of Technology National Center for Hydrogen Research is conducting research and development to enable the possibility of hydrogen fuel to become a reality.
About Our Work
Our Mission
To actively promote the fullest use of hydrogen as a clean, renewable engery source by providing an environment for learning, research and technology transfer.
Hydrogen: The renewable fuel source
Hydrogen, found in plentiful supply in the Earth's water systems and in other compounds, is potentially the ultimate renewable energy source for humankind. The applications for hydrogen as a fuel are numerous, ranging from laptop computers to entire communities to transporation.
Research Areas
Hydrogen Production & Purification
Florida Tech is investigating new techniques for preparing metal alloy membrane hydrogen purifiers. The additional role of surface coatings on preventing contaminant adsorption, particularly CO2 and H2S, and on increasing hydrogen flux via the preparation of Pd alloy films that are less than 10 nanometers in thickness, with the eventual goal of generating inexpensive fuel cell-quality hydrogen for use in vehicular applications.
Hydrogen Systems for Mobile and Stationary Sources
Low noise, low pollution electric airplanes, boats and buses are benefits of a hydrogen-fueled economy. Florida Tech is involved in developing systems for transporation vehicles. A diesel bus, two airplanes and several watercraft are being converted for operation using hydrogen-based-fuel.
Hydrogen Sensors
Florida Tech is developing a fiber-optic sensor for the simultaneous measurement of hydrogen gas concentration and temperature that is usable at both high and cryogenic temperatures. The sensor has no electrical components and thus can be used in potentially explosive enviornments. Applications include hydrogen storage, systems monitoring and scientific research.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance
Through computational and laboratory experiments, Florida Tech is improving the understanding and performance of fuel cells, particularly in minimizing weight and increasing efficiency.