Fuel Cells and Hydrogen - EME5163/6163

This graduate course (open to Undergraduate Seniors in Engineering) reviews the science and engineering of fuel cells and fuel processors, the generation of hydrogen and its safe handling and storage.  The course provides a brief overview and introduction to the history and background of fuel cells.  The fundamental chemistry and electrochemistry principles are addressed early and lay the foundations of understanding for the duration of the course.  Half-cell reactions, the Nernst equation, the operating electrochemical thermodynamics, along with the Butler-Volmer equation and Tafel plots are explored.  The major types of fuel cells are reviewed, and their basic designs and their key components are discussed, including ionic conducting materials, electrodes, membrane-electrode assemblies (MEA), gas diffusion layers, manifolds, and bipolar plates. 

The operation and performance of fuel cells are assessed and the various contributing components to over-potential losses in the polarization and power curves are considered.  Fuel cell systems are then discussed, including humidification, cooling, fuel and oxygen introduction, and controls.  Possible methods of system modeling are reviewed.

To address the major question “where will the hydrogen come from?” the topic of fuel reforming, and the challenges of processing gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and other hydro-carbon fuels are evaluated.  Other forms of hydrogen generation, including electrolysis, are analyzed and assessed.  The storage, handling and safety, and the use of hydrogen as a viable energy carrier are also topics.  Lastly, the evaluation of fuel cells and their efficiencies as integrated systems are assessed.

Several additional references from a variety of recent technical journals relating to fuel cells, their performance and hydrogen systems will be introduced and reviewed by students to supplement the learning process.

Photo credit: Matt Stiveson, c/o NREL