Hydrogen generation from aluminum hydride for wearable polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. (15th June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thampan, T.; Atwater, T.; Cook, C.; Novoa, J.; Sutorik, A.C.
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 41:Number 22(2016)
• Page Start: 9402
• Page End: 9409
• Publication Date: 2016-06-15
• Subjects: Fuel cells -- AlH3 -- Wearable -- Hydride -- Model -- Cartridge; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2016.04.095
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: Aluminum hydride (AlH3 ) has been identified as a promising H2 storage material for fuel cell systems and offers a significant weight savings over conventional Li-ion batteries, due its high H2 storage capacity and simple balance of plant requirements for H2 generation. This work reports on the development and characterization of a novel, wearable AlH3 based PEM fuel cell system. System characterization revealed an unexpectedly low energy density value, 25% lower than anticipated, (436 Wh kg −1 vs. 582 Wh kg −1 for 1440 Wh) due in part to a previously unpublished phenomenon of incomplete α-AlH3 thermolysis. Based on literature reports, complete thermolysis was expected to occur at <180 °C, however this work reports on conditions where the full H2 yield cannot be obtained despite high temperature (>250 °C) exposure. This work provides an experimental characterization of this phenomenon and quantitatively describes it by developing a new model in the framework of the Avrami–Erofeev phase transformation model, which can be utilized for the optimum design of high energy density AlH3 cartridges. Highlights: Development and characterization of a new, wearable AlH3 based PEM fuel cell system. Characterization of partial vs. complete AlH3 dehydrogenation phenomenon. Novel kinetic model developed & verified to predict AlH3 dehydrogenation phenomenon. Model and experimental characterization can be utilized to develop improved systems.