To celebrate an international reputation in fuel cell and hydrogen research, the University of Birmingham recently hosted a seminar to invited guests both from industry and academia showcasing pioneering projects that will continue to help shape a sustainable future.
Professor Robert Steinberger-Wilckens, Director of the University’s Centre for Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Research introduced the day’s programme highlighting investments into lab facilities that support research such as the production of hydrogen from waste, fuel cell electrical drives for road and aerial vehicles, and the direct use of natural gas in fuel cells for domestic hot water and power.
The importance of collaborating with industry was a key theme of the event and current and former members of staff and students were joined by industry partners such as Microcab Ltd and Airmax Group.
Mr Paul Honeyman, Product Manager, Vaillant UK said, “The quality of presentations was fantastic, and the enthusiasm with which they were delivered was admirable. To see the cars in the flesh was a great way of visualising how this research has been realised into what will undoubtedly be the fuel of the future as we look to find cleaner and more renewable ways of living our 21st century lives.”
Mr Stephen Crosher, CEO, Fleet Renewables said, “The 60 Years of Hydrogen event provided several insight’s into interesting and exciting technology developments emerging from Birmingham University. We hope that Fleet Renewables can become an active partner in commercialising some of the technology innovation available”.
The Centre for Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Research was formed in early 2000 by the former Director, Prof. Kevin Kendall and is part of the School of Chemical Engineering within the College of Engineering & Physical Sciences at The University of Birmingham. With an internationally recognised programme of research into hydrogen as a future energy vector and the development of key technologies in all of these areas, the University is working towards making a low and no carbon economy a reality.
The focus is on building a bridge between basic and applied research. Building on a firm basis of science, practical solutions are sought. Industry can engage with this expertise through commercial research and consultancy services, accessing equipment and facilities, through to collaboration and partnership to gain access to the university intellectual property.