Yanhai Du, Ph.D., professor in the College of Aeronautics and Engineering at 91ֿ and administrator for the Sustainable Energy Lab, continues to break ground in energy systems research with a trio of patent accomplishments aimed at advancing the performance and integration of fuel cell technologies.
Du is the co-inventor on two U.S. patents awarded for a multifunctional manifold that improves the design and operation of electrochemical devices, particularly spiral solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The patents, issued in June 2023 and November 2024, describe a compact manifold capable of simultaneously delivering fuel and oxidant gases, collecting electrical current, and facilitating heat exchange. These integrated features are designed to improve the efficiency and scalability of next-generation SOFC systems.
“These multifunctional manifolds are not just about simplifying components—they’re about improving performance and enabling more efficient use of space and energy,” Du said.
In addition to the SOFC innovations, Du is also named on a U.S. patent application filed in July 2023 for a Liquid Fuel Onboard Desulfurization System. The system targets a key challenge in mobile power applications—removing sulfur from hydrocarbon fuels like JP-8. Designed with a compact helical reactor surrounding a heating element, the system uses a metal oxide sorbent to remove sulfur impurities before fuel reaches sensitive power-generation systems. Its small form factor and modular design make it ideal for onboard or remote applications.
“These technologies address some of the most pressing barriers to clean, reliable energy systems—both in the air and on the ground,” Du said.
Du’s work underscores 91ֿ’s growing leadership in applied energy research and its commitment to innovation in aeronautics and engineering. His research contributes to fuel flexibility, emissions reduction, and energy system resilience—important focus areas for defense, aerospace, and sustainable infrastructure applications.