Contestant Two

Hydracool LLC is pioneering an innovative cooling device powered by solid-gas reactions between metal alloy powders and hydrogen, forming a Metal Hydride Heat Pump (MHHP). This technology leverages metal hydrides, which adsorb and release hydrogen during phase changes, enhancing thermal energy transport efficiency. Our primary focus is developing a structure to increase hydrogen diffusion within the metal hydride, addressing the current limitation of diffusion rates. The company aims to achieve a 10% improvement in efficiency over conventional refrigerant technologies using low and medium-quality heat sources. The market opportunity for this technology is substantial, particularly within the commercial HVAC sector. Through the NSF I-Corps program, we discovered a significant demand for more efficient, reliable, and easy-to-maintain cooling solutions, driven by upcoming regulations phasing out current refrigerants. Hydracool's MHHP technology promises not only enhanced efficiency but also aligns with sustainability goals by incorporating a recyclable metal hydride system. Hydracool LLC, founded in 2021, comprises a dedicated team of engineers and business experts led by Donald Williams, an experienced material scientist. Our goal is to create a commercially viable MHHP prototype that meets industry needs for efficiency and simplicity, poised to revolutionize thermal energy storage and cooling applications.