HYDROCARBON-AIR FUEL CELL
Abstract
Studies aimed at the development of a direct hydrocarbon-air fuel system for moderate temperature and pressure operation indicates that anode electrocatalysis is the key problem area. Consequently, research during this report period emphasized studies aimed at (1) improving platinum catalyst utilization and (2) developing a non-noble metal hydrocarbon catalyst. Two classes of compounds which meet the electrocatalyst requirements, the tungsten bronzes and the eta-phase carbides, were investigated. None of the carbides tested showed significant activity. However, a NiO.237WO3 tungsten bronze has shown catalytic activity on hydrogen in 90 C sulfuric acid without any evidence of corrosion. Work aimed at improving noble metal utilization through the use of improved supports, co-supports and decomposition techniques has resulted in an improved butane catalyst. Tests in 150 C phosphoric acid yielded a current density of 80 ma/sq cm at a loading of only 3.2 mg Pt/sq cm. An alternate route to improved electrolytes should significantly improve power densities with noble metals and some are sufficiently non-corrosive to be useful with non-noble metal catalysts. Pyrophosphoric acid and mixed alkali metal hydrogen phosphates have sustained high current densities at both the hydrocarbon anode and oxygen cathode.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0802671
Entities
People
- A. A. Zimmerman
- Carl E. Heath
- Eugene H. Okrent
- George Ciprios
- Hugh H. Horowitz
- J. S. Asher
- J. S. Batzold
- M. Beltzer
- M. Broyde
- William J. Asher