SIMPLIFIED HYDRAZINE-AIR FUEL CELL.
Abstract
Discussed is the development of a hydrazine-air fuel cell which will operate on high fuel concentrations, without circulating electrolyte. The fuel cell cathodes do not contain noble metal catalysts. A membrane was selected which could be applied directly to the surface of the electrodes, and had a low resistance. A dual-porosity anode and a 'reversed-type' cathode were used. The cell configuration consisted of two anodes and two cathodes. Hydrazine monohydrate was injected into the electrolyte space between the anodes, and its diffusion to the active cathode sites was restricted by four barriers: the dense porous structure of the anode; the anode membrane; the cathode membrane, and the porous nickel support of the reversed-cathode structure. The cell construction method chosen was based upon a pair of injection-molded side pieces to which the electrodes were cemented. These side rails defined the cell thickness. Special features of the cells consisted of the hydrazine-injection manifold arrangement, baffles in the cell reservoir to prevent spillage, and silver strips connecting the anodes and the cathodes to small contact pins located in the cell cap. Environmental testing of cells was limited because of insufficient time, but did include the study of: (a) current-voltage characteristics and internal cell resistance; (b) temperature dependence; (c) air-flow dependence; (e) water balance; (f) cell life, and (g) hydrazine efficiency. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0693846
Entities
People
- K. V. Kordesch
- M. B. Clark