ZeroAvia. has been granted a patent for a method of forming bipolar plates for fuel cells. The innovation involves a composite coating with a conductive first layer and a nonporous, corrosion-resistant second layer, ensuring high gas-tightness and low contact resistance, enhancing fuel cell performance. GlobalData’s report on ZeroAvia gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on ZeroAvia, Fuel cell powered drones was a key innovation area identified from patents. ZeroAvia's grant share as of July 2024 was 29%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Bipolar plates for fuel cells with corrosion-resistant coatings
The patent US12051831B2 outlines a method for creating a bipolar plate for fuel cells, emphasizing a layered structure that enhances performance. The process begins with the provision of a core, which can be made from materials such as titanium or aluminum. A first layer, characterized by a thickness between 0.2 and 5 µm and containing pores, is formed on this core. Subsequently, a second nonporous layer, with a thickness ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 µm, is applied over the first layer, effectively sealing the pores. The combination of these layers is designed to achieve a contact resistance of less than 0.35 Ohm·cm² at a pressure of 138 N/cm², which is critical for efficient fuel cell operation.
Further details specify that the first layer may consist of titanium nitride, potentially formed through magnetron sputtering, while the second layer can be a ceramic coating derived from various metal oxides. The method of thermolysis is suggested for creating the second layer, involving the application of a metal organic compound followed by heating to temperatures between 300 and 600°C. The patent also notes that the bipolar plate can be integrated into proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and highlights the importance of achieving low corrosion currents and contact resistance, with specific values mentioned for optimal performance. Overall, the claims detail a structured approach to enhancing the functionality and durability of bipolar plates in fuel cell applications.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
