Army researchers have developed a novel, structurally-stable, aluminum-based nanogalvanic alloy powder that,
when combined with water or any water-based liquid, reacts to produce on-demand hydrogen for power generation at room temperature without chemicals, catalysts or externally supplied power.
These patent-pending powders
produce hydrogen at a rate that currently is one of the fastest reported for Al and water reactions without the need of hazardous and costly materials or additional processes. The reaction results in the production of hydrogen and heat with only inert residual materials; i.e., no toxic by-products. ARL has demonstrated that hydrolysis will occur with virtually any water containing liquid. . . .
- This powder-based alloy includes material that disrupts the formation of an encapsulating aluminum oxide layer, allowing for the continuous production of hydrogen that can be used at the point of need to power a wide range of devices via fuel cells and internal combustion.
The powder can be easily manufactured to scale, and can be conveniently and safely transported via tablets or vacuum pouches, thus eliminating reliance on high-pressure hydrogen cylinders.
—Dr. Anit Giri, a scientist with the lab‘s Weapons and Materials Research Directorate
ARL will post a Federal Register Notice and launch a supporting website inviting companies to submit their ideas on how best to commercialize this technology. The laboratory will then select the most appropriate partners and collaborators. Officials said license exclusivity will then be determined.
The researchers said the powders has many advantages, such as:
Energy and Power Source
Stable Alloy Powder
Non-Toxic
Environmentally Friendly
Hydrogen Emitting
Manufacture to Scale
Easily Transportable . . . .