Hydrogen storage-based rechargeable fuel cell system

Abstract

An electrochemical system for converting electrical energy into chemical energy and chemical energy into electrical energy. The electrochemical system comprises a means for converting electrical energy into chemical energy, and a means for converting chemical energy into electrical energy, wherein the means for converting electrical energy into chemical energy and the means 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 the hydrogen generator, and a portion or all of the common electrode is an anode of the fuel cell. Hydrogen, oxygen, and water may be recycled in the system.

Description

Technical field [0001] The present invention mainly relates to the technical field of fuel cells. More specifically, the present invention relates to a hybrid fuel cell system in which a hydrogen storage material is used as the solid hydrogen source of 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 hazardous emissions. Fuel cells are capable of high-efficiency energy conversion, which can be used in transportation or stationary applications. As for transportation applications, fuel cells represent a promising alternative to vehicles that use traditional 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. On the other hand, fuel cell vehicles use pure hydrogen as fuel, and only discharge water and energy ...

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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