Suk-Won Cha

Title: The Innovations of Suk-Won Cha

Introduction

Suk-Won Cha is a prominent inventor based in Stanford, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of fuel cell technology, holding a total of 8 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and functionality of fuel cells through innovative designs and materials.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents involves a fuel cell with an electroosmotic pump. This invention addresses the common issue of water flooding at the cathode of a fuel cell. By integrating an electroosmotic pump, the product water can be effectively removed from the cathode area, thereby increasing the power output of the fuel cell. The integration of these pumps transforms the designs of air channels and air-breathing cathodes, reducing air pumping power loads and enhancing oxidant transport. Additionally, the electroosmotic pumps can manage hydration of gas streams, liquid reactants, and oxidant delivery. Notably, these pumps have no moving parts and can be integrated as a layer of the fuel cell, making them scalable from centimeter to micron-sized fuel cells.

Another significant patent by Cha describes a simple, inexpensive, and highly efficient fuel cell. This design features boundary structures made from a photo-sensitive material combined with selective patterning. The use of printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication techniques allows for the combination of boundary structures with both two and three-dimensional electrical flow paths. This innovative approach helps in creating micro-channel structures or micro stitch structures that substantially reduce dead zones in the diffusion layer while minimizing fluid flow resistance. The assembly of this fuel cell is free from mechanical clamping elements, utilizing adhesives that provide both mechanical and electrical connections.

Career Highlights

Suk-Won Cha has worked with notable organizations such as Leland Stanford Junior University and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. His experience in these institutions has contributed to his expertise in fuel cell technology and innovation.

Collaborations

Cha has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Friedrich B. Prinz and Yuji Saito. Their joint efforts have further advanced the research and development of fuel cell technologies.

Conclusion

Suk-Won Cha's contributions to fuel cell technology through his innovative patents and collaborations highlight his significant role in the field. His work continues to pave the way for advancements in energy efficiency and sustainability.