Transport Technologies Sector

Fuel Technology

The UK has the second largest fuel cell industry in Europe and alternative fuel sources are high on the British Government's agenda. Birmingham University is among the leading European research establishments for fuel cell technology.

Fuel technology relies on a chemical reaction to generate electricity. In most cases it uses hydrogen extracted from the air, or from water, although other gases can be used.

The University of Birmingham is active in several fuel cell related areas. Its Department of Chemical Engineering is active in the development of tubular SOFC (Solid-Oxide Fuel Cell) technology and has set up a fuel cell network which aims to link everybody who has an interest in fuel cells in the UK. In addition, it has set up a Low Carbon Energy Centre which combines its efforts on hydrogen storage, fuel cells, fuel processing, biomass, energy from waste, control systems, and emissions policy. Meanwhile, its Department of Metallurgy and Materials is the lead contractor in an EU backed project to investigate novel hydrogen storage materials. The €2.19 million project was completed in January 2004.

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