Researchers at UCLA’s Samueli School of Engineering have unveiled a key breakthrough for the future of heavy-duty transportationThe innovation responds to an urgent need in the logistics sector, where trucks require reliable, long-lasting power sources . This innovation responds to an urgent need in the logistics sector, where trucks require reliable, long-lasting power sources.
Fuel cell with optimized design for high durability
The new catalyst developed by the team led by Prof. Yu Huang employs pure platinum protected by graphene cavities embedded in a porous carbon matrix (Ketjenblack). This architecture avoids the degradation typical of platinum alloy catalysts, improving both stability and efficiency under demanding conditions.
During accelerated tests simulating extended use conditions, the system showed a power loss of less than 1.1% after 90,000 voltage cycles. These results far exceed current U.S. Department of Energy standards, which target 30,000 hours for fuel cell systems by 2050. heavy-duty fuel cell systems. heavy-duty fuel cell systems.
Viable alternative to electric batteries
Unlike batteries, fuel cells fuel cells are lighter and offer refueling times comparable to gasoline. Their lighter weight and higher energy density make them ideal for long-haul trucks, allowing long hauls without sacrificing cargo capacity.
Medium and heavy trucks represent only 5 % of the vehicle fleet, but generate about 25 % of the transport sector’s emissions. Adopting this new technology could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. greenhouse gas emissions.. In addition, the implementation of a hydrogen infrastructure could require less investment than a national electric charging network.
A solid foundation for the future of mobility
This development builds on previous UCLA advances in catalysts for light-duty vehicles, where they had already exceeded DOE goals. Now, with this heavy-duty innovation, the door is open to a real transition to cleaner, more sustainable transportation.
The work was published in Nature Nanotechnology and involved researchers from UC Irvine. In addition, the university has applied for a patent to protect this innovative technology.
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Source: Samueli School of Engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Photo: Shutterstock
