Progress of Cryogenics and Isotopes Separation , ISSN: 1582-2575
2015, Volume 18, Issue 1

A Review Regarding a “Man-Portable” Lightweight Flexible Fuel Cell Concept Small Power Supply

Abstract

Silent operation and minimal volume are inevitably necessary to commercialize a small fuel cell for military applications in tactical field. The overarching objective of this study is based on the understanding fundamental scientific issues regarding the design, performance, robustness and durability of a new fully integrated fuel cell system, which could offers to the army a safe, lightweight personal 25-40W power source for continuous equipment operation by soldiers in the field. A fully integrated portable fuel cell power source contains: fuel processor, fuel cell, and power electronics module. An attractive hydrogen delivery system is sodium borohydride NaBH4 as a stable and inexpensive material, one of the highest hydrogen containing materials, which could provide hydrogen for a required period, at a required rate and at a required quantity, through the hydrolysis reaction, on the low-cost catalyst. The volume of a fuel stack could be reduced by miniaturizing of stack components.  A thin flexible printed circuit board can be utilized as a current collector in order to reduce an air-breathing monopolar stack’s volume.