Fuel Cell Developer Relocates Near Nanotech Researcher

Carbon nanotube illustration (National Science Foundation)

Bing Energy Inc., a manufacturer of components for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, is moving its headquarters from California to Florida to work with a university researcher in nanotechnology. The company had already licensed the research of Jim Zheng, an engineering professor at Florida State University in Tallahassee, whose work involves nanosensors, energy storage, and fuel cells.

Zheng’s research in carbon nanotubes, a form of nanoscale (1 nanometer = 1 billionth of a meter) carbon that is both light and easily conducts heat or electricity, has led to the design of a membrane that can reduce the need for expensive platinum components in hydrogen fuel cells. Bing is expected to incorporate the technology into its hydrogen fuel cells, with production beginning in March 2011.

Bing Energy also received in February a subcontract from University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando for developing electrode assemblies and a 500-watt prototype. The funding for the UCF subcontract came from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrogen, Fuel Cells and Technologies Program.

The company’s new facility in Florida is expected to create some 244 jobs. Bing Energy’s move to Florida is tied to a $1.9 million award the company recently received from the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development.

Read more: University Licenses Carbon Nanotube Technology for Fuel Cells

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