Scientists at the A*STAR Institute of Chemical and Engineering Sciences in Singapore have recently produced innovative materials that make the use of hydrogen power a real possibility in the future. The process builds on a current method of using hydrogen called Ethanol Steam Reforming (ESR). By using new materials, namely an iron-promoted rhodium-based catalyst on a calcium-modified aluminum oxide support, the chemists have been able to avoid many of the drawbacks of current ESR. The new materials do not create the byproduct Carbon Monoxide, which is toxic and costly to remove. The materials also allow for hydrogen energy to be created at much lower temperatures: about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Economically, the new catalyst and support are also preferable; they have a longer active lifespan, and are quite stable for use in many environments. With continued research, scientists at A*STAR hope to create a hydrogen generator capable of being sold and used on an industrial scale, which would promote the use of renewable energy globally.
Submitted by Anthony Wetzel
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