Superior MicroPowders LLC (SMP, Albuquerque, NM) announced the signing of a long-term, joint-development agreement in the field of hydrogen generation with a unit of ChevronTexaco Technology Ventures. Multiple parallel programs are defined under the agreement, focusing on the manufacture of advanced catalyst material systems for fuel reformer and hydrogen generation technologies.
Under the terms of the agreement, SMP will develop and produce proprietary catalyst systems within certain fields of use. The agreement establishes a framework for additional future collaboration and provides detailed guidelines for licensing and preferred supply agreements. Work under this agreement is slated to begin immediately.
SMP Director and Vice President Mark Hampden-Smith stated, "The intimate relationship between the operation of the membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) and the fuel reformer demands that suppliers of each component work closely to develop balanced systems. We view the opportunity to influence both MEA and reformer technology as unique, enabling us to offer fuel cell OEMs total materials systems solutions."
