FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1) Why is AEC's hydrogen production technology unique and how is it more viable than other forms of hydrogen production?
It has been stated by leading industry experts that the hydrogen economy will not become reality until two important developments occur:
- A reduction in the selling price of a reliable fuel cell
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The availability of low-cost, safe hydrogen
a) Many fuel cell prices have started to descend but are still considered too high for mass commercial appeal. High capital and operating costs preclude their widespread use (i.e. PEM and expensive platinum membrane). AEC originally partnered with Astris Energi, a leader in Alkaline fuel cell technology, because of their fuel cell's strong reliability and lower cost due to a non-reliance on precious metals.
b) The least expensive hydrogen is currently derived from the reformation of fossil fuels such as natural gas. Current cost estimates indicate that AEC can produce hydrogen at a competitive cost and realize a strong profit even while selling it at a very competitive price. This is largely due to cost offset from by-product sales.
2) To whom and when will you be selling your hydrogen and by-products?
AEC's business model has evolved greatly over the last two years.
While originally focused on specific small-medium power solutions for its hydrogen, recent technical advances combined with the discovery of a number of new chemical by-products, have shifted AEC's business to large-scale, commercial bulk hydrogen applications.
Specifically, there has been considerable liaising and relationships being made in the hydrogenation industry, where a reduction in the price of hydrogen has a dollar-for-dollar positive effect on a hydrogenator's bottom-line. The locations of these facilities are strategically important so that by-products can be readily sold locally or exported to foreign markets. Relationships are currently being developed in the United States and abroad as a complement to this evolving strategy.
Currently, AEC's technical team is working with designers and a reputable pilot plant development company to construct its first commercial size pilot facility.
3)Can you disclose your method of hydrogen production?
At this point, while patents are still pending, AEC can disclose only a limited amount of technical information to protect its proprietary rights. Full disclosure will occur once patents have been issued.
What can be disclosed is the following. A combination of readily available, price-stable metals and chemical compounds are added together into a sealed container combined with a solution that allows for a chemical reaction to take place. Hydrogen gas (H2) and by-products are then produced (tested 99.9% pure). The process is completely bio-compatible (non-toxic and safe to the environment).
4) What is your prediction on when (what year) cars will be powered by fuel cells?
It is difficult to make predictions in this area as there is a multitude of contributing factors. However, what can be said is that there is definite potential for our product in the transportation industry. Specifically, AEC is investigating the potential of supplying hydrogen to enhance existing fuels (i.e. gas, diesel) to increase fuel efficiency for fleet vehicles.
5) Are there any specific plans for mass production?
AEC's strategy is to partner or license its technology with organizations that have reputable manufacturing experience, a pervasive distribution infrastructure and superior customer service capabilities in targeted sectors to ensure quick time-to-market via their manufacturing, co-marketing and sales.
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