Our mission is to promote and support the growth of an electrochemistry industry by providing technological leadership with a vigorous program of research, development and demonstration. By serving as a locus for academic talent of the highest caliber and a non-profit site for the objective evaluation and improvement of industrial products, our goal is to become a primary leader for the understanding and advancement of fuel cell and electrolyzer technology.
We aim to help industry advance the technology and commercialization of electrocatalytic processes by training graduate students and performing research within the areas of:
The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center is located in the Department of Chemical Engineering in the Horizon I Building at the University of South Carolina. Our research center is focused on the integrated study of electrolyzers and fuel cells. Electrolyzers have a wide range of applications and are of interest for combined hydrogen and high-value chemical production (e.g., SO2 and water to H2 and H2SO4). Fuel cells continue to show promise as a future power source for automobiles, residences and commercial products. We work closely with industry to develop and advance electrocatalytic processes that will serve companies all over the world.
Hyzon Motors, headquartered in Rochester, NY, has begun a partnership with the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center at the University of South Carolina to determine how catalyst-coated membranes degrade when subjected to accelerated stress tests that are relevant to heavy-duty vehicles.
The chemical giant BASF, based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is collaborating with the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center at the University of South Carolina to explore and develop new electrochemical synthesis methods for recycling industrial byproducts in simpler and more economical ways. Another project involves the development of porous transport layer in water electrolyzer system. This partnership also draws on the expertise of Dr. Brian Benicewicz, known worldwide for his work in polymers and polymer membranes.
The Lubrizol Corporation, headquartered in Wickliffe, OH, has begun a new partnership with the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center at the University of South Carolina on a project to improve the performance and durability of fuel cells for both stationary and mobile applications. Work will focus on improvements in durability of components of the fuel cells, including both the membrane and electrode.
Dr. Shimpalee is participating the recent awarded project from DoE Advance Manufacturing Office to Savannah River National Laboratory. His team will develop multiscale modeling of radio frequency reactor coupled catalyst Heating for ethylene production.
General Motors Company awarded two years research project to develop microstructure model for lithium-ion battery.