Project Title:
A Regenerative, Solid-Ionomer, Alkaline, Membrane Fuel Cell
10.06-7270
910613
A Regenerative, Solid-Ionomer, Alkaline, Membrane Fuel Cell
Giner, Inc.
14 Spring Street
Waltham
MA
02254-9147
John A.
Lisek
617-899-7270
LeRC
NAS3-26329
210
10.06-7270
910613
Abstract:
A Regenerative, Solid-Ionomer Alkaline, Membrane Fuel Cell
An efficient, lightweight, compact electrochemical storage system is important to
the success of many future NASA missions. Regenerative fuel cell systems have a high
potential, but with the currently available technologies, a single-unit regenerative
fuel cell is not practical. An advanced single-unit regenerative fuel cell (RFC)
that features a solid-ionomer alkaline membrane (SIAM) like the electrolyte, in conjunction
with novel bifunctional oxygen catalysts and electrode structures, will be evaluated.
This RFC is expected to combine the best features of alkaline electrolyte and proton
exchange membrane (PEM) technology. The anticipated advantages of the SIAMRFC include:
improved system efficiency, increased stack lifetime, significant weight, volume,
and cost reductions, and improved reliability. The program includes development and
testing in both fuel cell and electrolysis modes of modified SIAMs and bifunctional
oxygen catalyst-electrode structures in a single-unit RFC. A goal is to obtain projected
performance in both modes comparable or superior to that of the corresponding dedicated
alkaline cell.
Some potential commercial applications for the SIAM include power sources for transportation,
peak power shaving, and energy storage in conjunction with nuclear, solar, wind,
tide, or river power.
rechargeable fuel cells, solid-ionomer alkaline membranes, bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts,
space applications