Fuel Cell Matrix Material Study.
Abstract
The purpose of the program was to improve the resistance of chrysotile asbestos to potassium hydroxide at temperatures greater than 100C so that the asbestos would function satisfactorily as a matrix mat for hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells. Basic studies of the KOH-asbestos reaction revealed the reaction to be: Mg3Si2O5 + KOH = 3 Mg(OH)2 + solubles silicates, the extent of reaction being a function of time, temperature, and KOH concentration. It was determined that the morphology of the Mg(OH)2-asbestos reaction product could be maintained fibrous so that the desirable flexibility and capillarity for a matrix mat were retained. This was the basis for development of a highly converted material with a composition of approximately 85% Mg(OH)2-15% asbestos, which exhibits good physical properties along with greatly improved chemical resistance to KOH. A second development in the studies was the capability to eliminate the KOH-asbestos reaction by addition of soluble potassium silicate to the system. (Modified author abstract)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0761512
Entities
People
- William B. Crandall
- Yoshiro Harada
Organizations
- IIT Research Institute