First Graphene Limited provided results from a collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) on the use of metal oxide coated PureGRAPH® materials as catalysts in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEM-FC). PEM-FCs are used to power hydrogen fuelled vehicles, with early adoption underway in mass transport and fleet markets. Like battery powered electric vehicles, no carbon emissions are produced but the PEM-FC has the added advantage that range can be extended by increasing fuel capacity without the need to increase the power unit size. Existing PEM-FCs have one disadvantage in that expensive platinum catalysts are required for the oxygen reduction reactions that must take place in the cathode of the fuel cell. The collaborative research between First Graphene and Drs Yagya Regmi and Laurie King, of the Manchester Fuel Cell Innovation Centre at MMU, has tested metal oxide coated PureGRAPH® materials as potential oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts. Initial results confirm that metal oxide coated PureGRAPH® is an effective catalyst for the cathode ORRs. It has the potential to be used as a cheaper alternative to platinum in the next generation of fuel cells. Dr. Regmi and Dr. King are recognised experts in the field of hydrogen fuel cells and recently presented to the UK's All-Party Parliamentary Climate Change Group. Both parties will now undertake a four-month collaborative project, funded by the MMU's Business Engagement Seed Fund. The fund supports academic engagement with industrial clients to address real-world business needs. In this case it will support the development of new products in hydrogen and fuel cell technology. The team will focus on further optimisation of the test devices and extended comparisons with current industrial catalysts. The metal oxide coated PureGRAPH® catalysts were manufactured using intellectual property exclusively licensed to the Company from the University of Manchester, and provide additional opportunities including a route to supercapacitor materials.