This $269,334 National Science Foundation (NSF) Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (CFDA 47.084) Project Grant award to Hplus Inc., a small disadvantaged business located in Santa Barbara, CA, supports the development of advanced proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolyzer technology.
The key objectives of this Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project are to: (1) develop a physics-based numerical model to optimize the porous transport layer (PTL) microstructure for improved mass transport and efficiency; (2) leverage photochemical etching to precisely control the PTL morphology; (3) conduct performance testing to validate the efficiency gains; and (4) assess mechanical durability and hydrogen crossover to address market risks. The anticipated results include higher efficiency, cost reduction, and scalable manufacturing processes for PEM water electrolyzers, enabling the production of low-cost "green" hydrogen and reducing carbon emissions. This project advances cutting-edge electrolyzer technology to support the nation's energy and economic security priorities.
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