Fuel Cells and On-Demand Hydrogen Production: Didactic Demonstration Prototype

Hydrogen is presently the most promising alternative to fossil fuels as an energy carrier. A demonstration prototype, for didactic purposes, is presented featuring a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEM) coupled to a reactor designed for simultaneous on-demand hydrogen production and storage. The operating principles are illustrated in a simple but comprehensive manner with the aid of an attached booklet emphasizing advantages and limitations to performance on the basis of the electrochemical and physical knowledge of the system. The cell generates electricity combining hydrogen and air in an electrochemical direct process, using a modular device, which is characterized by high efficiency in the conversion and low level of emissions and noise. Emphasis is given to the modularity of the cell and the role of the different components that makes the energy conversion possible, from chemical to electrical and from electrical to mechanical, driving a small motor associated to a bus-like shaped mobile platform. The cell is designed for an air breathing cathode. On-demand hydrogen using chemical hydrides is the option taken for production as well as storage of the fuel, based on the high volumetric and gravimetric efficiency exhibited. Data for comparison with other storage methods are provided in order to encourage a debate on the different storage systems and applications. The demonstration is intended for students at High School and University levels.