Applied Nanotech wins SBIR grant from US DOE

Applied Nanotech wins SBIR grant from US DOE

September 19, 2012 0 By John Max

Applied Nanotech wins $999,990 grant

Applied Nanotech, a research and commercialization organization with a focus on nanotechnology, has been awarded the Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The $999,990 grant will help Applied Nanotech develop new, lightweight hydrogen fuel tanks that make use of carbon nanotubes. Nanotechnology has gotten a great deal of attention in the realm of hydrogen fuel because of its potential to solve the problems that exist in fuel cells and storage tanks.

Grant to fund research and development of new hydrogen fuel tanks

The SBIR grant will fund a 24-month project that will focus on enhancing the mechanical properties and the materials used in the production of hydrogen fuel tanks. Through the use of carbon nanotubes, Applied Nanotech aims to reduce the overall weight of hydrogen fuel tanks by at least 20%. The tanks that will be developed by the organization are meant to be used with vehicles that are equipped with fuel cells. By reducing the weight of fuel tanks, the efficiency of these vehicles is expected to increase. A reduced weight also means that the tanks can be manufactured more affordably.

Applied Nanotech wins SBIR grant from US DOE

Applied Nanotech to leverage extensive experience in nanotechnology

Applied Nanotech has significant experience in various forms of nanotechnology, most of which have uses in the realm of manufacture. The company has developed numerous nanocomposite materials that could help improve the durability of fuel cells as well as their efficiency. Applied Nanotech has been working to commercialize its technology over the past few years and notes that it can be used for more than just fuel cells and hydrogen fuel tanks. Nanocomposite materials can be used in bicycles, highly durable body armor, fishing poles, and vehicle protection products.

Nanotechnology may solve problems with hydrogen fuel cells

Nanotechnology may hold the key to solving the problems that are currently facing the fuel cell industry. Carbon nanotubes, and other such materials, have shown promise in making fuel cells and fuel tanks more durable, efficient, and affordable, thus making the energy systems more attractive to consumers. The major hurdle that nanotechnology must overcome, however, is commercialization.

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