ISSN:
0001-1541
Keywords:
Chemistry
;
Chemical Engineering
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
Notes:
The effect of design and operational variables on the performance of one type of hydrogen-oxygen ion exchange membrane fuel cell has been studied. Only the results of cells based on a phenolsulfonic acid formaldehyde type of ion exchange membrane containing one type of reinforcement are described. Platinum, palladium, iridium, and rhodium are adequate electrode materials for room-temperature operation. Performance of cells with platinum gauze current collectors bonded to the cell surfaces was only slightly better than that with external contacts about 1 cm. apart.Open circuit voltages range from 0.9 to 1.1 v. (theoretical 1.23) depending on the catalyst. The typical current at 0.5 v. is 30 ma./sq. cm. Better cells have delivered 80 ma./sq. cm. at 0.5 v. Life tests indicate that these cells can be expected to deliver a minimum of about 40 amp.-hr./sq. cm., when operated in the load range 8.5 to 230 ohm sq. cm., before failure of the electrolyte owing to pinhole formation. Current efficiency is very nearly 100%. Cell performance vs. temperature in the range 0° to 85°C. shows a maximum at about 55°C.
Additional Material:
24 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/aic.690070406
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