Environmental sensor system for expanded capability of PEM fuel cell use in high air contaminant conditions. (13th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Higgins, Scott R.; Ewan, James; St-Pierre, Jean; Severa, Godwin; Davies, Kevin; Bethune, Keith; Goodarzi, Abas; Rocheleau, Richard
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 43:Number 50(2018)
• Page Start: 22584
• Page End: 22594
• Publication Date: 2018-12-13
• Subjects: Fuel cell electric vehicle -- Air contamination -- Environmental sensors -- Air filtration -- Air sensing; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2018.10.138
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: A novel device called the Environmental Sensor System has been designed and demonstrated to provide real time environmental air contaminant analysis and monitoring to allow fuel cell control systems to protect the integrity of the fuel cell from environmental contaminants. This is accomplished through continuous sampling of the ambient air used to provide oxygen to the fuel cell. Electrochemical sensors are used in this prototype device to monitor hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide and volatile organic compounds. The air is monitored before and after the air filter to allow for preventative maintenance and emergency protection. The integration of this ancillary device will allow fuel cell systems to safely and reliably operate in high air contaminant conditions which previously would have resulted in stack poisoning from air contaminants. Preliminary demonstration of this technology to protect the stack on a fuel cell electric bus is reported. Highlights: Devices designed to sense environmental air contaminants. Protocols for fuel cell powered vehicles to operate in harsh environments. Demonstration of fuel cell powered bus operation in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.