ZeroAvia has secured nine additional patents, several of which are central to its strategy for scaling hydrogen-electric engines to power large regional aircraft. In total, the company now holds 45 patents focused on hydrogen and electric aviation technologies.
Hydrogen Electric Engines
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) No. 12,341,225 covers an integrated hydrogen-electric engine. The patent supports the development of a modular hydrogen-electric engine in the multi-megawatt (MW) range, designed for regional aircraft platforms such as the ATR and Dash 8 families. This design relates to ZeroAvia’s ZA2000 engine, featuring 40 to 80-seat regional turboprops and jets.
Another key aspect of the hydrogen electric engines is the delivery of fuel cell systems with higher specific power. GB2614450 covers novel coatings for aluminium bipolar plates for high-temperature proton exchange membrane (HTPEM) fuel cell systems. This will enable higher-temperature operations with lightweight metals and reduce degradation.
Several of the approved patents relate to cryogenic storage systems, thermal regulation for fuel cells, and catalysts for fuel cells that incorporate platinum nanoparticles. One involves the refuelling for hydrogen fuel cell-powered aircraft. Which enables refuelling efficiency and a thermoelectric generator that uses heat from refuelling to provide electricity for other systems in the aircraft.
Accelerating innovation in hydrogen-based aviation technologies
Val Miftakhov, founder and CEO of ZeroAvia, said that the recent patents give a window into an accelerating field of innovation. According to Mifakhov, there is a big opportunity for companies interested in hydrogen propulsion systems, as large airframe manufacturers such as Airbus and Rolls-Royce, as well as research organisations like NASA, begin to compete for hydrogen aircraft technologies. He stated these inventions will deliver clean, affordable, and highly efficient commercial air travel.
ZeroAvia’s approved patents provide comprehensive coverage of essential engine subsystems and various elements of aircraft integration. The company now holds a sophisticated intellectual property portfolio in hydrogen-electric aviation powertrain technology. This broad patent portfolio is complemented by proprietary trade secrets, particularly in materials used in ZeroAvia’s HTPEM fuel cell systems. ZeroAvia continues to grow, with a focus on a cleaner future.
With 45 patents now in place, ZeroAvia appears to be positioning itself as a technology leader in the hydrogen aviation space. The company’s next steps will likely involve demonstration flights, regulatory engagement, and collaboration with aircraft original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing hydrogen-electric aviation? Leave your comments below.
