Startup Siltrax has secured a $10.52 million investment from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) to develop groundbreaking silicon-based fuel cell technology.
The funding aims to advance the production of more efficient and lightweight fuel cells for heavy-duty vehicles and materials handling equipment.
Siltrax’s novel approach replaces traditional graphite or metallic bipolar plates with silicon, resulting in thinner and more efficient fuel cell components.
According to a press release from the CEFC, silicon’s durability in high-pressure, high-temperature, and acidic environments promises to enhance the longevity and performance of fuel cells while potentially reducing production costs.
Dr Zhengrong Shi, solar entrepreneur and Siltrax founder, brings his expertise in silicon-based materials and manufacturing scale-up to the project.
“The PV industry’s growth has been incredible over the past twenty years, as prices have dropped from $USD4-5/W to today’s $USD0.3/W. Siltrax builds upon the foundations of PV and semiconductor manufacturing, and is able to utilise the existing supply chains, technologies, and talent pool to the fullest,” Dr Shi said.
The company plans to leverage existing PV supply chains for raw materials and production equipment, potentially accelerating development and reducing costs.
Initially targeting stationary power generation, Siltrax’s technology could revolutionise the heavy-duty trucking sector by offering range and refuelling capabilities comparable to diesel trucks. Future applications may include forklifts, aerospace, and hydrogen electrolysers.
CEFC Chief Asset Management Officer Sara Leong emphasised the importance of diverse technologies in transitioning to a low-emissions economy.
“Advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology is critical for developing the hydrogen value chain and accelerating Australia’s hydrogen industry,” she said.
The investment, managed by Virescent Ventures, will support Siltrax in expanding its Australian R&D team, focusing on fuel cell systems engineering and local commercialisation opportunities.
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