- Email: [email protected]
Neah Power agrees investments from Optimus, Poddar
NEWS demands for off-grid energy without sacrificing the expectations for convenience, the EFOY 2200 complements our existing product mix perfectly.’ For professional users in the fields of traffic and security technology, as well as remote sensors, the new EFOY Pro 2200 will be available in October. Contact: SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG, Brunnthal-Nord, Germany. Tel: +49 89 673 5920, www.sfc.com or www.efoy.com
FuelCon delivers South African test stations
I
n South Africa, the University of Cape Town and the Johannesburgbased research council Mintek have ordered a total of eight fuel cell test stations, in the Evaluator C50-LT line, from German-based FuelCon. Mintek and the University of Cape Town are engaged in South Africa’s National Flagship Project in Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies, which was initiated within the framework of the South African Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Research, Development and Innovation Strategy [FCB, November 2008]. Within this project, the Catalysis Groups at both research facilities are responsible for establishing a Hydrogen Catalysis Competence Centre (HySA/Catalysis), which will focus on the development of South Africa as a manufacturing base for platinum group metal (PGM) catalysts. In this context, HySA/Catalysis aims to supply 25% of the PGM catalyst demand for the global fuel cell industry by 2020. When testing PEM fuel cell components such as catalysts, it is necessary to analyze the test item under various different operating conditions. This requires a very flexible and reliable testing system. With the FuelCon Evaluator C50-LT test stations the research groups will, for example, be able to evaluate fuel cells with small and large cell areas and components, under both dry and humid environmental conditions. For testing the corrosion stability of catalysts, the C50-LT provides long-term test runs, with fast load cycles from high to low cell voltages. The high data volume generated during longterm tests is managed with the proprietary FuelWork software. The test stations are also designed with ‘reformat simulation’ options, as well as liquid methanol operation, which will allow Mintek and the University of Cape Town further various, application-oriented testing capabilities.
Federal-Mogul offers elastomer molding for fuel cell gaskets
U
S-based Federal-Mogul Corporation has developed the innovative Liquid Elastomer Molding (LEM™) gasket technology to assist in fuel cell development for energyefficient vehicles. The LEM technology is intended to assist fuel cell manufacturers in overcoming some of the mass production challenges of size, cost, and packaging. Federal-Mogul’s patented LEM gaskets are constructed with small engineered elastomeric beads molded onto thin carriers. This approach is claimed to provide superior sealing performance while significantly reducing the size and weight of each fuel cell stack, compared to other molded sealing technologies. Each LEM gasket can be 0.3–0.5 mm thick, whereas conventional molded gaskets are at least double that, says the firm. The company is now working with a major Tier One supplier of fuel cells to deliver an innovative gasket design which addresses weight and packaging challenges. A typical fuel cell stack is comprised of several hundred cells, each containing an ionexchange membrane and bipolar plates. The stack therefore comprises hundreds of bipolar plates and membrane elements which need to be sealed, requiring hundreds of gaskets, which adds length and weight to each stack. Federal-Mogul’s patented LEM gasket technology aims to address this challenge. The technology has been demonstrated to provide superior sealing performance with a gasket that is estimated to be at least half of the thickness, or size, of other gaskets. In addition, the LEM technology offers the potential to directly incorporate the gasket into the bipolar plates, offering further reduction in assembly complexity. ‘Federal-Mogul’s LEM gasket provides a unique sealing technology, offering one of the smallest sealing cross-sections and lowest load to seal in the industry,’ says Gerard Chochoy, senior vice president for Federal-Mogul Powertrain Sealing and Bearings. ‘Our sealing technology can contribute to a more optimized fuel cell package and reduced weight, which can support fuel cell technology to become more widely accepted.’
Contact: FuelCon AG, Magdeburg-Barleben, Germany. Tel: +49 39203 961330, www.fuelcon.com
September 2009
Federal-Mogul Corporation: www.federalmogul.com
Ceres Power fits out manufacturing facility
U
K-based Ceres Power has successfully completed the fit-out of its 50 000 ft2 (5000 m2) fuel cell mass manufacturing facility in Horsham. The fit-out work involved upgrading power and air handling equipment, health & safety systems and other services, as well as preparing the facility for the installation of volume fuel cell manufacturing equipment. The key fuel cell manufacturing equipment has been procured, and installation of some of the main machines is already under way. It is anticipated that an initial manufacturing line will be commissioned by the end of September, and manufacturing operations will commence before year-end. The facility will manufacture low-volume beta units in 2009 and into 2010 for sheltered field trials under Ceres’ contract with British Gas. Additional equipment will be installed in 2010 to deliver the higher volumes required for commercial field trials and in preparation for volume launch with British Gas in 2011. The facility in Horsham will mass-manufacture fuel cells, and assemble fuel cell stacks and fuel cell modules in volume. Assembly of the combined heat and power (CHP) products in volume will be completed by an assembly partner in accordance with Ceres Power’s overall design, and sold by Ceres under volume supply agreements with channel partners including British Gas [FCB, February 2008] and Calor Gas [FCB, April 2009]. The new volume manufacturing facility will create ‘a significant number’ of new skilled ‘green-collar’ jobs in Horsham and the surrounding area, both at Ceres and in the company’s supply chain. Contact: Ceres Power Ltd, Crawley, West Sussex, UK. Tel: +44 1293 400404, www.cerespower.com
Neah Power agrees investments from Optimus, Poddar
U
S-based Neah Power Systems, which is developing silicon-based direct methanol fuel cells for portable electronic devices and the military, has reached agreement with Optimus Energy Capital Partners, an investment fund, under which Optimus may
Fuel Cells Bulletin
9
NEWS purchase up to $10 million of Neah Power stock. In addition, Wearology Ltd, a division of the Indian-based Poddar Group, and associated entities, have committed to invest up to $0.5m in Neah Power. ‘The confidence shown by the financial community in Neah’s patent-protected technology and our commercial engagements is truly gratifying,’ says Dr Chris D’Couto, the firm’s president/CEO, of the Optimus deal. ‘This major commitment to the company should enable us to quickly complete manifold renewable energy solutions for our customers, and meet our corporate goals including listing on the AMEX.’ He sees the investment as an endorsement of the untapped market opportunity ahead of the company. D’Couto and Rohitashwa Poddar, managing director of The Poddar Group in Mumbai, India, announced the covenant jointly, saying the two companies’ business plans support their joint philosophy of environmentally friendly, pollution-free businesses. ‘This capital infusion… facilitates funding for production of prototypes for various companies, such as Hobie Boats, EKO Vehicles of India, and others which we have joint venture deals with,’ says D’Couto. ‘This is an exciting opportunity for the Poddar Group to participate in what will be a tectonic shift in global energy production,’ adds Rohit Poddar. ‘All of the Poddar Group’s many businesses will benefit as a result.’ Neah Power Systems is developing a unique, silicon-based design for its micro direct methanol fuel cells that enable higher power densities, lower cost and compact form-factors. The company’s micro fuel cell system can run in aerobic and anaerobic modes. Contact: Neah Power Systems Inc, Bothell, Washington, USA. Tel: +1 425 424 3324, www.neahpower.com The Poddar Group: www.poddargroup.com Wearology Ltd: www.wearology.com
Intelligent Energy to push commercialization with $30m investment
U
K-based fuel cell developer Intelligent Energy has raised US$30 million in a new funding round, despite the very tough global economic conditions. The money raised from both existing and new investors will be used to provide for the next stage of the company’s growth, as it accelerates the commercialization of its fuel cell power systems into its targeted mass markets. 10
Fuel Cells Bulletin
Intelligent Energy’s range of clean power system platforms, based on its proprietary PEM fuel cell technology, has enabled it to target global mass markets through strong partnerships with ‘blue chip’ customers that include Scottish & Southern Energy and Suzuki Motor Corporation. ‘There now exists a stronger sense of realism within the clean energy sector, with major players now expected to produce tangible results,’ explains Intelligent Energy’s chief executive, Henri Winand. ‘Only companies with solid execution and scalable businesses with clear pathways to commercialization have been able to attract financing in such a challenging environment.’ Winand sees the new investment as a testament to the continued excellence in product development and genuine commercial progress that Intelligent Energy has demonstrated with its partners. He continues: ‘All our target markets offer very significant growth opportunities on a global scale, and with these funds we will continue to accelerate the commercialization phase of our business plan, by driving the delivery of our blue-chip partners’ clean fuel and power products to their consumer markets.’ The recent round of fund-raising will be followed by an open offer to all existing shareholders later in the year. Contact: Intelligent Energy, Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK. Tel: +44 1509 225863, www.intelligent-energy.com
Hydrogenics cancels APC agreement
O
ntario-based Hydrogenics has formally notified American Power Conversion Corporation (APC), based in Rhode Island, of the termination of the manufacturing and supply agreement the companies signed in August 2006. The supply agreement provided that APC would purchase up to 500 HyPM™ XR 12 kW fuel cell power modules from Hydrogenics [FCB, October 2006]. These would be integrated into APC’s NCPI solutions, specifically its InfraStruXure architecture, over a three-year period, subject to the terms of the supply agreement. In the notice of termination, Hydrogenics has requested a termination payment of approximately US$2.1 million by APC. This is determined by a formula in the supply agreement, based on the number of products for which APC has issued orders and paid for under the supply agreement. ‘We remain committed to working with APC towards an amicable resolution of APC’s obligations under the supply agreement,’ comments Daryl Wilson, president/CEO of Hydrogenics. ‘We strongly believe that despite the termination
of the supply agreement, our independent efforts over the past three years have resulted in the development of significant expertise and know-how, which will allow us to build on and benefit other fuel cell products, applications and solutions.’ In other news, Hydrogenics reports that that General Motors Company has acquired ownership and control of 11.4 million common shares of Hydrogenics Corporation from General Motors Corporation. This transfer relates to the sale of substantially all of the assets of GM under US bankruptcy proceedings, and is the same stake which had been owned by GM since October 2001. The acquired shares represent approximately 12.3% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Hydrogenics. Contact: Hydrogenics Corporation, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Tel: +1 905 361 3660, www.hydrogenics.com
USFCC forms industry standards task force
T
he US Fuel Cell Council has formed a new Industry Standards task force to address, review, and evaluate existing industry protocols for overlaps and discrepancies. The initial focus will be on PEM fuel cells, although other types will be investigated depending on participant interest. ‘The task force’s mission will be to compile test protocols, identify discrepancies, and to possibly propose a method to unify protocols where appropriate,’ says Tony Blaine, chair of the new group. The task force is part of the USFCC Materials & Components Working Group. This group works to address issues in the production and supply of materials and components, and their specification and standardization, which will lead to a reliable supply of components and sub-assemblies for fuel cell stacks.
US Fuel Cell Council: www.usfcc.com
RESEARCH
Neah creates first hybrid electrolyte aerobic DMFC
U
S-based Neah Power Systems has demonstrated an air-based fuel cell for aerobic applications. This system, when fully developed, is expected to have higher energy density than
September 2009
FuelCon delivers South African test stations
I
n South Africa, the University of Cape Town and the Johannesburgbased research council Mintek have ordered a total of eight fuel cell test stations, in the Evaluator C50-LT line, from German-based FuelCon. Mintek and the University of Cape Town are engaged in South Africa’s National Flagship Project in Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies, which was initiated within the framework of the South African Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Research, Development and Innovation Strategy [FCB, November 2008]. Within this project, the Catalysis Groups at both research facilities are responsible for establishing a Hydrogen Catalysis Competence Centre (HySA/Catalysis), which will focus on the development of South Africa as a manufacturing base for platinum group metal (PGM) catalysts. In this context, HySA/Catalysis aims to supply 25% of the PGM catalyst demand for the global fuel cell industry by 2020. When testing PEM fuel cell components such as catalysts, it is necessary to analyze the test item under various different operating conditions. This requires a very flexible and reliable testing system. With the FuelCon Evaluator C50-LT test stations the research groups will, for example, be able to evaluate fuel cells with small and large cell areas and components, under both dry and humid environmental conditions. For testing the corrosion stability of catalysts, the C50-LT provides long-term test runs, with fast load cycles from high to low cell voltages. The high data volume generated during longterm tests is managed with the proprietary FuelWork software. The test stations are also designed with ‘reformat simulation’ options, as well as liquid methanol operation, which will allow Mintek and the University of Cape Town further various, application-oriented testing capabilities.
Federal-Mogul offers elastomer molding for fuel cell gaskets
U
S-based Federal-Mogul Corporation has developed the innovative Liquid Elastomer Molding (LEM™) gasket technology to assist in fuel cell development for energyefficient vehicles. The LEM technology is intended to assist fuel cell manufacturers in overcoming some of the mass production challenges of size, cost, and packaging. Federal-Mogul’s patented LEM gaskets are constructed with small engineered elastomeric beads molded onto thin carriers. This approach is claimed to provide superior sealing performance while significantly reducing the size and weight of each fuel cell stack, compared to other molded sealing technologies. Each LEM gasket can be 0.3–0.5 mm thick, whereas conventional molded gaskets are at least double that, says the firm. The company is now working with a major Tier One supplier of fuel cells to deliver an innovative gasket design which addresses weight and packaging challenges. A typical fuel cell stack is comprised of several hundred cells, each containing an ionexchange membrane and bipolar plates. The stack therefore comprises hundreds of bipolar plates and membrane elements which need to be sealed, requiring hundreds of gaskets, which adds length and weight to each stack. Federal-Mogul’s patented LEM gasket technology aims to address this challenge. The technology has been demonstrated to provide superior sealing performance with a gasket that is estimated to be at least half of the thickness, or size, of other gaskets. In addition, the LEM technology offers the potential to directly incorporate the gasket into the bipolar plates, offering further reduction in assembly complexity. ‘Federal-Mogul’s LEM gasket provides a unique sealing technology, offering one of the smallest sealing cross-sections and lowest load to seal in the industry,’ says Gerard Chochoy, senior vice president for Federal-Mogul Powertrain Sealing and Bearings. ‘Our sealing technology can contribute to a more optimized fuel cell package and reduced weight, which can support fuel cell technology to become more widely accepted.’
Contact: FuelCon AG, Magdeburg-Barleben, Germany. Tel: +49 39203 961330, www.fuelcon.com
September 2009
Federal-Mogul Corporation: www.federalmogul.com
Ceres Power fits out manufacturing facility
U
K-based Ceres Power has successfully completed the fit-out of its 50 000 ft2 (5000 m2) fuel cell mass manufacturing facility in Horsham. The fit-out work involved upgrading power and air handling equipment, health & safety systems and other services, as well as preparing the facility for the installation of volume fuel cell manufacturing equipment. The key fuel cell manufacturing equipment has been procured, and installation of some of the main machines is already under way. It is anticipated that an initial manufacturing line will be commissioned by the end of September, and manufacturing operations will commence before year-end. The facility will manufacture low-volume beta units in 2009 and into 2010 for sheltered field trials under Ceres’ contract with British Gas. Additional equipment will be installed in 2010 to deliver the higher volumes required for commercial field trials and in preparation for volume launch with British Gas in 2011. The facility in Horsham will mass-manufacture fuel cells, and assemble fuel cell stacks and fuel cell modules in volume. Assembly of the combined heat and power (CHP) products in volume will be completed by an assembly partner in accordance with Ceres Power’s overall design, and sold by Ceres under volume supply agreements with channel partners including British Gas [FCB, February 2008] and Calor Gas [FCB, April 2009]. The new volume manufacturing facility will create ‘a significant number’ of new skilled ‘green-collar’ jobs in Horsham and the surrounding area, both at Ceres and in the company’s supply chain. Contact: Ceres Power Ltd, Crawley, West Sussex, UK. Tel: +44 1293 400404, www.cerespower.com
Neah Power agrees investments from Optimus, Poddar
U
S-based Neah Power Systems, which is developing silicon-based direct methanol fuel cells for portable electronic devices and the military, has reached agreement with Optimus Energy Capital Partners, an investment fund, under which Optimus may
Fuel Cells Bulletin
9
NEWS purchase up to $10 million of Neah Power stock. In addition, Wearology Ltd, a division of the Indian-based Poddar Group, and associated entities, have committed to invest up to $0.5m in Neah Power. ‘The confidence shown by the financial community in Neah’s patent-protected technology and our commercial engagements is truly gratifying,’ says Dr Chris D’Couto, the firm’s president/CEO, of the Optimus deal. ‘This major commitment to the company should enable us to quickly complete manifold renewable energy solutions for our customers, and meet our corporate goals including listing on the AMEX.’ He sees the investment as an endorsement of the untapped market opportunity ahead of the company. D’Couto and Rohitashwa Poddar, managing director of The Poddar Group in Mumbai, India, announced the covenant jointly, saying the two companies’ business plans support their joint philosophy of environmentally friendly, pollution-free businesses. ‘This capital infusion… facilitates funding for production of prototypes for various companies, such as Hobie Boats, EKO Vehicles of India, and others which we have joint venture deals with,’ says D’Couto. ‘This is an exciting opportunity for the Poddar Group to participate in what will be a tectonic shift in global energy production,’ adds Rohit Poddar. ‘All of the Poddar Group’s many businesses will benefit as a result.’ Neah Power Systems is developing a unique, silicon-based design for its micro direct methanol fuel cells that enable higher power densities, lower cost and compact form-factors. The company’s micro fuel cell system can run in aerobic and anaerobic modes. Contact: Neah Power Systems Inc, Bothell, Washington, USA. Tel: +1 425 424 3324, www.neahpower.com The Poddar Group: www.poddargroup.com Wearology Ltd: www.wearology.com
Intelligent Energy to push commercialization with $30m investment
U
K-based fuel cell developer Intelligent Energy has raised US$30 million in a new funding round, despite the very tough global economic conditions. The money raised from both existing and new investors will be used to provide for the next stage of the company’s growth, as it accelerates the commercialization of its fuel cell power systems into its targeted mass markets. 10
Fuel Cells Bulletin
Intelligent Energy’s range of clean power system platforms, based on its proprietary PEM fuel cell technology, has enabled it to target global mass markets through strong partnerships with ‘blue chip’ customers that include Scottish & Southern Energy and Suzuki Motor Corporation. ‘There now exists a stronger sense of realism within the clean energy sector, with major players now expected to produce tangible results,’ explains Intelligent Energy’s chief executive, Henri Winand. ‘Only companies with solid execution and scalable businesses with clear pathways to commercialization have been able to attract financing in such a challenging environment.’ Winand sees the new investment as a testament to the continued excellence in product development and genuine commercial progress that Intelligent Energy has demonstrated with its partners. He continues: ‘All our target markets offer very significant growth opportunities on a global scale, and with these funds we will continue to accelerate the commercialization phase of our business plan, by driving the delivery of our blue-chip partners’ clean fuel and power products to their consumer markets.’ The recent round of fund-raising will be followed by an open offer to all existing shareholders later in the year. Contact: Intelligent Energy, Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK. Tel: +44 1509 225863, www.intelligent-energy.com
Hydrogenics cancels APC agreement
O
ntario-based Hydrogenics has formally notified American Power Conversion Corporation (APC), based in Rhode Island, of the termination of the manufacturing and supply agreement the companies signed in August 2006. The supply agreement provided that APC would purchase up to 500 HyPM™ XR 12 kW fuel cell power modules from Hydrogenics [FCB, October 2006]. These would be integrated into APC’s NCPI solutions, specifically its InfraStruXure architecture, over a three-year period, subject to the terms of the supply agreement. In the notice of termination, Hydrogenics has requested a termination payment of approximately US$2.1 million by APC. This is determined by a formula in the supply agreement, based on the number of products for which APC has issued orders and paid for under the supply agreement. ‘We remain committed to working with APC towards an amicable resolution of APC’s obligations under the supply agreement,’ comments Daryl Wilson, president/CEO of Hydrogenics. ‘We strongly believe that despite the termination
of the supply agreement, our independent efforts over the past three years have resulted in the development of significant expertise and know-how, which will allow us to build on and benefit other fuel cell products, applications and solutions.’ In other news, Hydrogenics reports that that General Motors Company has acquired ownership and control of 11.4 million common shares of Hydrogenics Corporation from General Motors Corporation. This transfer relates to the sale of substantially all of the assets of GM under US bankruptcy proceedings, and is the same stake which had been owned by GM since October 2001. The acquired shares represent approximately 12.3% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Hydrogenics. Contact: Hydrogenics Corporation, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Tel: +1 905 361 3660, www.hydrogenics.com
USFCC forms industry standards task force
T
he US Fuel Cell Council has formed a new Industry Standards task force to address, review, and evaluate existing industry protocols for overlaps and discrepancies. The initial focus will be on PEM fuel cells, although other types will be investigated depending on participant interest. ‘The task force’s mission will be to compile test protocols, identify discrepancies, and to possibly propose a method to unify protocols where appropriate,’ says Tony Blaine, chair of the new group. The task force is part of the USFCC Materials & Components Working Group. This group works to address issues in the production and supply of materials and components, and their specification and standardization, which will lead to a reliable supply of components and sub-assemblies for fuel cell stacks.
US Fuel Cell Council: www.usfcc.com
RESEARCH
Neah creates first hybrid electrolyte aerobic DMFC
U
S-based Neah Power Systems has demonstrated an air-based fuel cell for aerobic applications. This system, when fully developed, is expected to have higher energy density than
September 2009