Clean TechnologiesÂ
Faculty and graduate researchers across Washington State
University are addressing the threats of energy supply,
global warming, pollution, and resource depletion through
research and policy development. Together, they are
helping to make the transition to an economy based on
alternatives to fossil fuels.
WSU researchers are developing technologies for methods
to store hydrogen safely and to create bio-based fuels.
They lead technology developments aimed at securing the
nation’s electrical power grid. In radiochemistry
and atmospheric transport research they seek to minimize
the environmental impact of energy production and
consumption. And in related social and behavioral science
research, faculty advise in the selection of technologies
that promote sustainability and societal benefit.
Dr. Grant Norton's team is working to patent nanospring
technology that would fit into an ordinary style gas
tank, solving the problem of hydrogen storage. In 2001,
Dr. Norton and University of Idaho physics professor
David McIlroy were the first scientists to create
nanosprings. Read
more.
M. Grant Norton (at left), associate dean of
research and graduate programs, College of
Engineering and Architecture and professor in the
School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering,
envisions a day when drivers will fill their cars
at a fuel pump dispensing hydrogen rather than
gasoline. Hydrogen-fueled vehicles would reduce our
nation's dependence on foreign oil while protecting
the environment.
However, before hydrogen-powered cars are a common
site on our nations' highways, scientists must come
up with a means to safely store and then release
hydrogen fuel, in amounts sufficient for private
cars.
Visit our Clean
Technologies Web site.
