Research Capabilities
Fuel Cell Design and Analysis
Fuel cells are able to efficiently convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy without combustion—eliminating the formation of pollutants. PNNL is performing fuel cell research in support of the DOE Solid State Energy Conversion Alliance (SECA) Program and Michigan-based client Delphi Automotive Systems. PNNL's research includes high-temperature material development and testing, fuel cell process simulation and performance testing of prototype fuel cell designs. The goal of the SECA program is to develop a 5-kw auxiliary power unit for use in transportation systems, stationary distributed power and military applications. Through collaboration with software developers and laboratory and university partners, PNNL scientists are developing enhanced electrochemistry models, applying knowledge to next-generation fuel cell designs and developing predictive models to assess fuel cell strength and life.
Projects
- Integration of Flow–Thermal–Stress Modeling for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
- Electrochemistry Modeling of Solid Oxide Fuel to Fuel Cell Design and Analysis