To Operate effectively, PEM small fuel cells stacks need a chemical hydride hydrogen generator. The chemical hydride digital reactor suggested in the proposed program will provide about 2.5 kWH of energy in a5 pound package.--almost three times the energy density of a BA5590 battery. Studies and experiments will be conducted with special consideration of safety, heat release, parasite power consumption, and minimizing non-fuel weight. Specifically, the digital reactor development program will include the following objectives: Characterize the heat release of chemical hydrides from a digital reactor as a function of pellet composition and the use of accelerators and thermal sinks. Optimize pellet initiation from a cost and reliability standpoint. Minimize power consumption and non-fuel weight in the system Define a thermal management system which emphasizes safe operation of the hydrogen generation system Define the control logic for the digital reactor. Demonstrate how a 2.5 kWH, 5 pound, $1,000 system can be made. About half the cost should be a non-recurring cost.
Keywords: Fuel Cells, Chemical Hydrides, Digital Reactors, Hydrogen Generation
