William Goddard

Title: William Goddard: Innovator in Fuel Cell Technology and Nanowire Sensors

Introduction

William Goddard is a prominent inventor based in Pasadena, CA, known for his significant contributions to the fields of fuel cell technology and nanowire sensors. With a total of 2 patents, Goddard has made strides in developing innovative solutions that enhance energy efficiency and sensor capabilities.

Latest Patents

Goddard's latest patents include advancements in carbon-based electrocatalysts for fuel cells. His work on novel proton exchange membrane fuel cells and direct methanol fuel cells focuses on utilizing nanostructured components to achieve higher precious metal utilization rates at the electrodes, increased power density, and reduced costs. The catalyst formation involves depositing platinum or platinum-ruthenium nanoparticles onto various carbon-based materials, such as single-walled, dual-walled, multi-walled, and cup-stacked carbon nanotubes. The deposition process employs an ethylene glycol reduction method, and aligned arrays of these carbon nanomaterials are prepared by filtering them with ethanol. A membrane electrode assembly is created by sandwiching the catalyst between a proton exchange membrane and a diffusion layer, forming the first electrode, while the second electrode can be constructed using a conventional catalyst. The membrane electrode assemblies are stacked in a conventional manner to develop the fuel cells.

Another notable patent is related to a nanowire sensor and the method for its formation. This invention features a nanowire formed on a substrate, with a sensor receptor on its surface, creating a receptor-coated nanowire. The nanowire sensor can be organized into a sensor sub-unit comprising multiple receptor-coated nanowires, allowing for the detection of various stimuli. The sensor array is fabricated using techniques such as creating nanopores on a substrate and electrodepositing nanowires within these nanopores.

Career Highlights

Goddard has had a distinguished career, working with esteemed institutions such as the California Institute of Technology and the University of California. His research has significantly impacted the development of advanced materials and technologies in energy and sensing applications.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Goddard has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Minhee Yun and Nosang Myung, contributing to the advancement of innovative technologies in his field.

Conclusion

William Goddard's work exemplifies the spirit of innovation in fuel cell technology