65th Annual STS (2005-2006)
Finalists
Joseph Daniel Vellone

NEW YORK
Joseph Daniel Vellone, 17, of Armonk, investigated a method of improving the performance of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells for his Intel Science Talent Search project in engineering. Micro PEM fuel cells have the potential to replace lithium-ion batteries and operate 300 percent longer. However, they have a critical problem: water accumulates at the cathode, decreasing performance. Using micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication technology Joseph developed a novel gas diffusion media (GDM) to passively remove water. He was able to increase fuel cell performance by as much as 82 percent by making the GDM hydrophilic, adding a supplemental carbon-fiber wick and employing novel pore designs. Joseph believes his research could help advance PEM fuel cells and reduce our reliance on foreign oil. Joseph is captain of the debate and mock trial teams at Byram Hills High School, as well as president of the Interact and Amnesty International clubs. Fluent in Italian, he plays piano and tennis, which he has also coached in summers past. The son of E. Joseph and Janis Vellone, he hopes to study at Princeton or Yale and pursue his passions for science and diplomacy.