We are uniquely positioned as the only known company in the U.S. actively developing DEFC technology, and our progress places us at the forefront of global innovation in this field.
At 4H2, Inc., we are pioneering advancements in Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell (DEFC) technology to address critical knowledge gaps in building essential components of DEFC systems. Our cutting-edge research focuses on developing commercially viable solutions that can revolutionize power generation by utilizing ethanol, a renewable resource, while significantly reducing CO2 emissions.
Brian LaPlante
4H2 Co-Founder
Building critical components of the
DEFC system
The best practices for “printing” the newly discovered, patent-pending “high entropy alloy catalyst” onto carbon paper gas diffusion layers need to be studied to develop a practical and repeatable method suitable for commercial-scale adoption.
Development of a Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) suitable for commercial-scale use. For this project, an MEA appropriate for a 1000-watt prototype DEFC is required.
Development of the DEFC fuel cell assembly will involve acquiring knowledge on suitable adhesives, assembly press forces, and the time and temperature parameters used in press operations.
GAIN CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE
4H2 along with our university research partners are engaged in advanced research and
development of Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell (DEFC) technology. We are rapidly gaining critical
knowledge which will enable commercialization of the DEFC systems.
on-demand energy production
Completing the objectives and developing a demonstration DEFC system will enable in-field testing for on-demand energy production, supplementing wind and solar installations.
stand-alone power generator
Achieving the objectives and developing a pilot DEFC system will facilitate in-field testing as a
stand-alone electricity generator at the residential level.
broad applications in power generation
Pioneering DEFC Technology
Partner with 4H2, support work that has the potential to catalyze additional opportunities and external funding while creating environmental change.
Venture Capital Interest
Significant investment commitments pending the development of a test DEFC system.
Leadership in DEFC Development
4H2, Inc. is the leading U.S. company in DEFC technology, driving global advancements. Dr Yang at UCF is on the forefront of novel catalyst and architecture technology, critical to the success of DEFC commercialization.
Developing a DEFC Manufacturing Hub
Potential for Minnesota and North Dakota to become the center of DEFC fuel cell manufacturing through collaborative research.
Establishing a Permanent Research Laboratory
Essential to DEFC and ethanol dominance in clean electricity generation, the establishment of an Ethanol Fuel Cell and ethanol fuel synthesis research laboratory is critical.
UMD's Role in CO2 Conversion to Ethanol
Dr Sam Toan’s research supports the ethanol industry by converting CO2 to ethanol, aiming for a CO2 -neutral or CO2 -negative future for crop-based ethanol production.
Advancing CO2-Free On-Demand Power
On-demand power generation which does not emit CO2 or other greenhouse gases is critically important. Wind and solar power generation installations will greatly benefit from this research and development project. Deployable, scaled DEFC systems can create on-demand supplemental or primary power when wind and solar cannot generate sufficient power.
On-Demand Power Generation
Power cooperatives requiring peak demand supplemental power generation, or “time of use” load controls can utilize DEFC within customers’ homes, businesses, and farms for predictable, on demand power generation where and when it is needed.
Ideal Replacement for Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Power Generators
DEFC is very suitable for the replacement of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power generators. Wherever consumers need power which does not generate CO2 or GHG emissions, DEFC systems can be utilized.
Ideal Solution for Remote Locations with Aging Infrastructure
Remote locations which are not feasible for electricity distributors to update aging infrastructure, extend or increase power supply are great candidates for DEFC technology.
Sustainable Electricity Solution for Underserved Communities
Disadvantaged communities, which have not been adequately supplied electricity, are ideally suited for DEFC systems. Electricity infrastructure is not required to immediately and sustainably generate electricity.
Advancing DEFC for Mobile Applications
As 4H2, Inc. progresses, the power density of DEFC will become well suited to replace ICE for mobile applications of every type. The potential of using DEFC as exclusive electricity generation in wheeled applications, marine, construction, farm, and military is immense.
Achieving CO2 Emission Reductions
The obvious outcome of this project and the commercially viable DEFC that is created will be a direct reduction in CO2 emissions anywhere DEFC is deployed and replaces any fossil-fuel based power generation system in stationary or mobile applications.
Paving the Way for a CO2-Free Future in the Ethanol Industry
The ethanol industry will directly benefit from this project. DEFC will allow for the transition in use for ethanol fuel from ICE (which emits significant CO2) to a CO2-free future.
Brian LaPlante
Vice-President of Research and Development
4H2, Inc.
Project Role:
Coordinate the collaboration between 4H2, Inc., UCF, UMD Researchers, and DOE. Onsite development of fuel cell components and prototype development in the 4H2, Inc. location in Crookston, Minnesota.
Yang Yang Ph.D.
Team Investigator
Associate Professor
NanoScience Technology Center
Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Department of Chemistry
Renewable Energy and Chemical Transformation Cluster
The Stephen W. Hawking Center for Microgravity Research and Education
University of Central Florida
Project Role:
Oversees all DEFC project research and development at the University of Central Florida.
Dr. Sam Toan
Principal Investigator / Advisor
University of Minnesota Duluth
Associate Professor
PhD. Petroleum Engineering
Swenson College of Science and Engineering
Project Role:
Oversight and delegation of work duties and outcomes for the UMD research team.
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