The Effect of Fuel and Air Side Contaminants in a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell and Methods for Mitigation

Authors

Eric G. Leamon, University of Connecticut - StorrsFollow

Date of Completion

1-29-2016

Embargo Period

1-29-2016

Advisors

Dr. Michael Pettes, Dr. Prabhakar Singh

Field of Study

Mechanical Engineering

Degree

Master of Science

Open Access

Campus Access

Abstract

Investigations into the effects of fuel and air side contaminants within a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) were conducted via the introduction of selected contaminants in a controlled environment. Results show low electrical costs for hydrogen (>99% purity) production (<$2.00/kg), while utilizing the electrochemical separation of CO in a pulsed hydrogen pump system. Mitigation techniques within a PEMFC have shown a reduction in the voltage loss by a factor of 5 while operating with 1% CO at 400 mA/cm². Lastly, cation contaminants were observed to accelerate the pitting corrosion on the aluminum sublayer of gold plated aluminum, within an acidic PEMFC simulated environment.

Recommended Citation

Leamon, Eric G., "The Effect of Fuel and Air Side Contaminants in a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell and Methods for Mitigation" (2016). Master's Theses. 873.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/gs_theses/873

Major Advisor

Dr. Ugur Pasaogullari