ELECTRICAL PULSATIONS OF PROPANE-AIR DIRECT OXIDATION FUEL CELL.
Abstract
Self-induced cycling of a propane-air direct oxidation fuel cell was observed. The fuel cell under investigation at 175C comprised a set of 5-5/16 inches x 5-5/16 inches AA-2 electrodes with a phosphoric acid filled TA-1 matrix. It was utilized as an integral portion of a submodule with water recovery for fuel humidification. Air flow was at 1.5 x STOIC. Cycling, which was associated only with the anodic oxidation of propane, resulted in a rejuvenation and stabilization of the active electrode surfaces. It may be applicable as a means of increasing both performance and life of the ultra-simple direct oxidation fuel cell system presently under development at USAECOM. The inception of cycling, which was not of uniform periodicity, occurred under conditions related to propane concentration, apparent current density and degree of catalyst deactivation. A mechanistic interpretation of the cycling phenomena has been postulated; the coupling of reactions necessary for oscillatory behavior of this type is between a propane diffusion-adsorption step and platinum anodic oxidation-reduction. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0697126
Entities
People
- Peter Chutoransky Jr
Organizations
- United States Army Communications-Electronics Command