High-Temperature Proton Exchange Fuel Cell Membranes
Like Photovoltaics, fuel cells have been around for some time (1839). One of the more promising approaches, Proton-Exchange Membrane fuel cells or "PEMs" is believed to be ideal for automotive and small device power.
The Opportunity
PEMs typically operate at 80-90°C and are fundamentally "finicky" - in that they need a myriad of control & filtering systems including:
- Hydrogen Fuel purification and compression.
- Fuel Humidification systems.
- Temperature regulating heat exchangers.
- Water regulation systems.
This results in a system that is difficult to operate, has a large physical footprint and is more expensive due to the addition of control and management systems. Additionally, these systems operate on highly purified hydrogen gas that must have <10 ppm CO contamination as CO contamination causes the cell to cease to operation or become "poisoned".
GPEC Breakthrough
GPEC has developed a means to modify Nafion® material membranes allowing the PEM fuel cell to operate at elevated temperatures (130°C - 140°C) resulting in:
- A 50 X Increase In CO Tolerance While Enhancing Cell Voltage-Current Performance.
- Reduced Heat, Water And Humidity Management And System Needs.
- Lower Device Cost And Enhance Operational Robustness.
These benefits will enable what is currently a exercise in the theoretical to become reality - Fuel Cell powered vehicles. PEM powered fuel cell cars will emit only water vapor as exhaust.
Contact
GPEC is selecting partners to accelerate the development of this technology. Companies interested in learning more should contact the Company. Contact GPEC
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