Hydrogen storage-based rechargeable fuel cell system

Abstract

An electrochemical system (20) for converting electrical energy to chemical energy and converting chemical energy to electrical energy. The electrochemical system includes a device for converting electrical energy into chemical energy and a device for converting chemical energy into electrical energy, wherein the device for converting electrical energy into chemical energy and the device for converting chemical energy into electrical energy share a common electrode. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a hydrogen generator / fuel cell hybrid system. In various embodiments, the common electrode functions as a hydrogen source for the fuel cell, an active electrode for a hydrogen generator, and part or all of the common electrode is an anode (26) for the fuel cell. Hydrogen, oxygen and water can be circulated in the system.

Description

technical field [0001] The invention mainly relates to the field of fuel cell technology. More specifically, the present invention relates to hybrid fuel cell systems in which the hydrogen storage material acts as the solid hydrogen source for the fuel cell, as the fuel cell anode, and as the active electrode of the hydrogen generator. Background technique [0002] Fuel cell technology has the potential to significantly reduce energy use and emissions of harmful substances. Fuel cells are capable of highly efficient energy conversion, which can be used in transportation or stationary applications. As for transportation applications, fuel cells represent a promising alternative to vehicles using conventional internal combustion engines, which burn fossil fuels such as gasoline or diesel. Internal combustion engines produce harmful particles and add greenhouse gases to our atmosphere. Fuel cell vehicles, on the other hand, run on pure hydrogen and emit water and energy only...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Disadvantages of using hydrocarbon fuels include: (1) an on-board reformer increases the complexity, cost and maintenance of the fuel cell system; (2) if the reformer allows carbon monoxide to enter the anode of the fuel cell, it will gradually reduce the performance; (3) the reformer generates small amounts of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants; and (4) the instantaneous operation of the reformer

This problem can be solved by increasing the hydrogen storage pressure, but this method increases safety issues and requires the use of additional pressure equipment, which increases cost, weight, filling efficiency and safety issues

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