Originally published January 6 2006
Georgia scientists find a way to enhance the performance of PEM fuel cells
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
The Georgia Institute of Technology believes it has discovered a method for increasing the effectiveness of PEM fuel cells by using the chemical triazole to raise the fuel cells' operating temperature.
The potential for cheaper automotive fuel cells may soon be realised thanks to a new technique designed to increase the efficiency of PEM fuel cells by raising their operating temperature.
The Georgia Institute of Technology has found the use of the chemical triazole to increase conductivity and reduce moisture dependence in polymer membranes to be significantly more effective than similar chemicals researchers have explored.
"Triazole will greatly reduce many of the problems that have prevented polymer fuel cells from making their way into things like cars, cell phones and laptops," said team leader Dr Meilin Liu, a professor in the School of Materials Science and Engineering.
"It's going to have a dramatic effect."
Polymer fuel cell membranes must be kept relatively cool so that membranes can retain the moisture they need to conduct protons.
To do this, PEM units often operate at temperatures below 100�C.
Heat must be removed from the fuel cells to keep them cool, and a water balance has to be maintained to ensure the required hydration of the PEMs.
This increases the complexity of the fuel cell system and significantly reduces its overall efficiency.
Using triazole-containing PEMs, Liu's team has been able to increase PEM fuel cell operating temperatures to above 120�C, eliminating the need for a water management system and dramatically simplifying the cooling.
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml