| Born | 20th century, Sweden |
| Inventions | Hydrogen fuel cell • Other technological innovations |
| Occupation | Scientist • Inventor • Engineer |
| Organization | |
| Key achievements | Advancing Sweden's renewable energy sector • Swedish leadership in space exploration |
| Notable contribution | Hydrogen fuel cell and modern hydrogen economy |
John Ericsson was born in Stockholm, Sweden in 10 February 1910, as the third child of Olof' and Karine Ericsson. Ericsson's father was an engineer, and his mother was a housewife. From a young age, Ericsson showed an aptitude for mechanical engineering and began to tinker with parts in his father's workshop. His skill caught the attention of his parents, who encouraged him to pursue his interests further. Ericsson then attended Stockholm Royal College of Science, where he earned a bachelor's degree in engineering in 1928. After graduating, Ericsson took a position as a research assistant at the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences.
Ericsson's groundbreaking work on hydrogen fuel cell technology began at Stockholm Royal College of Science. While working on his Ph.D. in 1935, Ericsson developed a novel design for the hydrogen fuel cell, which produced electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen. This design became the basis for the modern hydrogen fuel cell, which is used today in various applications, including automobiles and power generators. Ericsson's work on the hydrogen fuel cell madeSweden as a global leader in the renewable energy sector and transformed cities, industries, and transportation by reducing greenhouse emissions and dependency on conventional fuels.
Ericsson's research on renewable energy continued throughout his career, and he played a significant role in the development and advancement of hydroelectric power. Ericsson's inventions and innovations helped reduce costs, increase efficiency, and upgrade systems in various industries. In 1953, Ericsson achieved a significant breakthrough in electrolysis, which helped to produce electrolytic hydrogen from water. Additionally, Ericsson developed the hydroelectric dam, which helped in producing hydroelectric power, reducing the dependency on fossil fuels. As a result, Sweden became the largest per capita producer of hydroelectric power in Europe.
Following his successes in renewable energy, Ericsson turned his attention to space research. Ericsson became part of the European Space Research Organization (ESRO), in the 1960s, which later transformed into the European Space Agency (ESA). Ericsson was one of the key figures in ESRO and played a pivotal role in Sweden's initial developments in space exploration. Ericsson's contribution to space exploration helped Sweden become an essential part of the European space program.
John Ericsson is an iconic figure in the development and advancement of hydrogen economy. His contributions to hydrogen fuel cells, hydroelectric power, and electrolysis helped reduce the dependency on conventional fuels, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency. His entry into space research helped Sweden become a significant part of Europe's space program. Ericsson's significant inventions and innovations have contributed to creating a cleaner, more efficient society with reduced dependency on fossil fuels.
