LOW-COST ACID FUEL CELL STACKS.
Abstract
In the first phase of this project, emphasis was placed on equipment modification and operation of fuel cell stacks. Over 2600 hours of stack testing time have been accumulated at 200 F and 250 F. Equipment and supplies for the breadboard reformer and fuel cell system have been ordered, but work has not yet started on this phase of the project. Tests have been conducted with 9 mg/sq cm electrodes to gain familiarity with stack operation at these temperatures and to establish a reference datum for subsequent tests. Reformed, shifted CITE fuel (RSCF) has been tested. Power outputs are lower than with RNG (reformed natural gas) or hydrogen, due to concentration polarization and possibly to increased CO effects. A combination of 5 mg/sq cm anodes and 5 mg/sq cm cathodes has also been tested with the RSCF fuel gas. This electrode combination is comparable to the 9 mg/sq cm electrodes. Tests indicate that 85% H3PO4 is preferable to 100% H3PO4 at 200 F. The higher acid concentration is more suitable at 250 F. Battery stacks operating at 250 F exhibit a performance increase of about 40 mv/cell, compared to stacks at 200 F. However, material degradation is accelerated at the higher temperature. Life testing has been successful at 200 F, and efforts are being made to obtain a corresponding life span for tests at 250 F. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0654522
Entities
People
- B. S. Baker
- D. Fisher
- D. K. Fleming
- J. Meek
- S. S. Randhava