“Sponge-Like” Material Could Boost Hydrogen Fuel Cell Performance
Hydrogen fuel cells may very well power the electric vehicles of the future, but right now hydrogen power has some inherent limitations. The technology is expensive, and the hydrogen in these systems has to be compressed at high pressures; current systems lose a significant amount of energy quickly, and the high pressure can lead to unsafe conditions.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory are investigating alternative storage methods for hydrogen-powered fuel cells by synthesizing novel materials with high hydrogen adsorption capacities. By improving storage capacity, the batteries could achieve longer charges, which would be a boon for hydrogen-powered electric vehicle designs. Continue reading
Batteries: Recharged
Cars and mobile devices are among our most beloved pieces of technology. President Obama refused to give up his BlackBerry when he entered office, and many people hang on to their favorite ride with a similar sort of passion. With all the love floating around, it should come as no surprise that battery research to power these devices is ongoing, with possible breakthroughs looming just around the corner.
Design engineers may be incorporating new battery technologies into products that double current battery performance in just a few years, according to researchers.

