HyperSolar Extends Research Agreement with University of Iowa
Focus of research to be on finalising commercial processes for GEN 1 and further development of GEN 2 multi-junction nanoparticles
HyperSolar, a developer of technology to produce renewable hydrogen using sunlight and water, has extended its sponsored research agreement with the University of Iowa through May 31, 2020 The fFocus of research to be on finalising commercial processes for GEN 1 and further development of GEN 2 multi-junction nanoparticles.
The GEN-2 solar-powered water-splitting nanoparticles consist of multiple semiconductor layers, with each successive semiconductor layer having a different composition and producing a successively smaller energy bandgap to increase the photovoltages for higher solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency.
"As we move closer to building a full demonstration pilot plant with our first-generation technology, our efforts are focused on replicating the success we have had in the University of Iowa Labs with commercial entities that will integrate the essential components of the solar hydrogen generation device including protective coatings, catalysts and membranes", said Tim Young, CEO of HyperSolar.
"Specifically, we are working with multiple companies to achieve a mass production strategy for protective coatings that will protect the thousands of cells to be deployed in the pilot plant. University of Iowa's record-breaking development work, as demonstrated in the 1000 hours of continuous device operation with our GEN 1 Cells, has made it possible for us to take the company to the next level."
The agreement also covers the extensive development work to complete and commercialise the company's GEN 2 nanoparticle hydrogen production panels that will deploy a much higher solar-to-hydrogen efficiency than GEN 1 at lower manufacturing cost. The work will continue to be led by University of Iowa assistant professor Syed Mubeen and HyperSolar CTO Joun Lee.
