Dual Cell Regenerative Fuel Cell Follow-On Investigation.
Abstract
This contract continued an analytical and experimental exploratory development program on the integrated dual cell design regenerative fuel cell for communications satellite applications. The design employs separate fuel cells and electrolysis cells in a single container which also acts as a reactant storage vessel. The alkaline electrolyte matrix cells are arranged on two concentric cylinders within the vessel with water transport accomplished by vapor diffusion across the hydrogen gap separating the two cylinders. System design studies of a 2-kw Energy Storage System indicate that an energy density exceeding 20 watt-hours per pound can be obtained for a complete system including redundancy and controls. The test program included elemental tests of flat integrated dual cells, individual electrolysis cells and of light weight cylindrical modules. A flat dual cell rig was tested for 650 cycles in 2872 hours of testing prior to being voluntarily shut down. One of the six light weight modules was operated for 150 cycles. The major conclusion from the efforts is that, although, the dual cell regenerative fuel cell requires further development to eliminate problems associated with electrolyte management, it is a viable concept which can meet the Air Force requirements for an advanced energy storage system for communication satellites. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0770680
Entities
People
- Douglas B. Baillieul
- James K. Stedman
Organizations
- Pratt & Whitney