Fuel Cell Balance of Plants – Filtration and Separation Systems for Fuel Cells – Challenges and Technological Approaches

Authors

N. Busch, M. Diekjakobs, A. Hilge, S. Pietschner, K. Rathinam, R. Edlerherr, E. Tewes, Hengst SE, Münster:

Year

2024

Print Info

Production/Publication ÖVK

Summary

Fuel cell systems are considered as one of the key technologies in sustainable energy generation and therefore also in climate-friendly mobility without harmful emissions. When hydrogen is used as a fuel, the only emissions from the silent electrochemical process are water and the exhaust air together with atmospheric oxygen. However, this process brings challenges.

The fuel cell system is highly sensitive to harmful gases and particles. Therefore, treating the intake air to provide pure oxygen to the fuel cell is a key challenge. The requirements here are anything but clear and the design of catalysts and membranes in the fuel cell are subject to a constant development process. The composition of suitable filtration solutions is important for safe and low-loss operation of the fuel cell in this context.

In addition, the cooling system of the fuel cell also requires effective chemical filtration to ensure that the electrical conductivity of the dielectric fluid remains at a low level. This paper offers insights into the design and modes of operation of such filters.

Furthermore, this paper will also provide insights into other system-relevant filtration and separation components relating to fuel cells. For example, Hengst has developed a unique water separator that serves as a central element in hydrogen anode management to regulate the fluid balance in the fuel cell.

ISBN

978-3-9504969-3-2

DOI

https://doi.org/10.62626/9m4b-pqbf