NICOP - Engineering of Photo-electrochemical Cells for Hydrogen Generation and Catalytic Electrodes for PEM Fuel Cells
Abstract
Photovoltaic offers the conversion of solar energy into electricity which is readily usable. However, solar energy is abundant but intermittent. It requires a suitable solution to store the harvested energy and reuse it as per demand. In this context, solar assisted water splitting represents an attractive solution. By doing so, solar energy is harvested and converted into chemical energy stored within molecule of H2. H2 is an excellent energy carrier with energy density by weight of 119 MJ/kg(273 KJ/mol), thus much higher than that stored within gasoline. The stored energy can be then extracted as per demand by employing a fuel cell, type proton exchange membrane fuel cell PEM FC wherein H2 is oxidized. Remarkably, the unique byproduct of the usage of H2 fuel is water. In other words, H2 is a perfect clean energy carrier. b. The current global energy consumption is 15 TW/year and is projected to be 30 TW/ year by 2050. The main reasons for this ever increasing energy demand are economic evolution of emerging countries like China, rapid development of living level in developing countries etc. In principles, traditional fossil energies can ensure the energy demand. However, burning fossils produces CO2 whose increased emission is related to climate change and several environmental issues. At the same time, it is worth noting that fossils are main feedstocks for the current chemical industry. Thus, in this context, searching for CO2-low alternatives to fossil energies represents a major global challenge of our time.In Vietnam, the energy deficit is already a serious issue, especially in peak summer season. It is predicted to be up to 75% by 2025.2 For instance, the energy supply in Vietnam is mainly ensured by thermal power and hydroelectricity. c. Code 33 will co-fund d. To create functioning (photo)electrochemical devices required to demonstrate feasibility of solar to electricity energy conversion through a H2 energetic carrier.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 23, 2016
- Source ID
- N629091612191
Entities
People
- Liem Quang Nguyen
Organizations
- Institute of Materials Science
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy