Published on May 24, 2011 at 3:23 AM
By Cameron Chai

ICAP Patent Brokerage, the IP brokerage subsidiary of ICAP and a patent auction firm, sold a patent portfolio characterizing superior hydrogen sensor technology.

Hydrogen fuel cells are an integral part of energy infrastructure in the US spurring the growth of related technology including hydrogen sensors. Hydrogen (H2) gas has multiple applications in laboratories, industrial and production environments. Since the gas is highly inflammable, its detection is of prime importance in all environments to ensure safety and security.

According to the patent portfolio, nanoparticles of metal alloys (palladium and silver) are essential elements of sensor technology. ANI's production methods enable nanoparticles to be developed in any required quantity or orientation. As the patented device is a working prototype, it can straightaway be utilized in manufacturing and can be commercialized. It allows manufacturers to utilize the knowledge and technical expertise of the ANI team, which will also train on various production and commercialization methods to enable trouble-free transition of the technology.

It allows variable concentrations (below LFL) of hydrogen gas to be easily tracked with the same nanosensor. It enables hydrogen detection at different temperatures and environments. The fabrication methods require less time and effort, allowing production of good quality, small, and low maintenance hydrogen sensors. The licenses and patent applications cover jurisdictions spanning the US, China Europe, Japan, Canada, and South Korea.

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