SBIR Phase II: Innovative And Cost-Effective Process for Net-Shape Microfabrication of Ceramic Components

Ceramatec, Inc., Salt Lake City UT

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will develop a ceramic hydrogen fuel appliance (CHFA) using ceramic microreactor modules (CMMs) using a low-cost, net-shape manufacturing process, and a new material, that was developed in the Phase I project. The new material developed was demonstrated to have excellent capability for cost-effective microfabrication of ceramic components with sub-micrometer precision. Further, it has good materials properties, including very high component surface area and thermochemical stability to temperatures as high as 1000 degrees C, that make it an ideal material for fabrication of CMMs. The commercial and broader impacts of this technology will be as hydrocarbon fuel reformers that supply hydrogen to fuel cells used as auxiliary power units (APUs) on board automobiles/trucks.