The University of Massachusetts-Amherst (UMass Amherst) has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to advance fuel cell research.

Scientists at the school's Massachusetts Center for Renewable Energy, Science and Technology will conduct studies into facilitating production of the tiny membranes inside fuel cells to attempt to make them cheaper and more efficient.

The grant is the first of several pledged to the University by the NSF under its Chemistry Centers Programme, with the school in line to secure $30 million over the next few years should the research progress as planned.

The focus of the scientists' studies will be on ascertaining which membrane substances will let right particles in the fuel cell to enter at right speed - a process that could make fuel cells more efficient, Professor Sankaran Thayumnanvan who is leading the research, said.

Massachusetts Congressman John W Olver said: "This investment by the NSF recognizes UMass Amherst as a hub of leading clean energy research. The technologies that are likely to emerge from this important work will stimulate economic development and manufacturing opportunities in the state.

"This also provides a tremendous opportunity for the Commonwealth to train tomorrow’s workforce."

Source:

UMass Amherst To Host National Fuel Cell Research Center, Launched With National Science Foundation Grant, 27/11/07
http://www.umass.edu/newsoffice/newsreleases/articles/69409.php

UMass-Amherst wins federal funds for fuel cell research, 27/11/07
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21994518/

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