Porosimetry equipment for the elucidation of the structural architecture of novel materials developed for fuel cell technologies: Project Summary

Abstract:

<p>One of the solutions put forward for the demand for a clean, efficient form of energy production is the use of hydrogen, in particular hydrogen fuel cells, and the development of the 'hydrogen economy'. The 'hydrogen economy' is a term for a hypothetical future economy where hydrogen is the dominant form of stored energy, the manner in which the UK and other countries might adopt such an economy, is currently the subject of much discussion. A key technology for the hydrogen economy is the hydrogen powered fuel cell, and it is widely believed that the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell will be used for automotive applications.</p> <p>This project will provide a facility to enable advances in PEM fuel cell materials as well as in their design and operation. The analytical equipment will enable the researchers and industry in the North West and elsewhere in the UK with an interest in fuel cells, to evaluate new catalysts and other materials which are constantly being developed for fuel cell applications. The aim of this proposal was to provide a vital analytical facility for materials research related to Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells. The School of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Science, in collaboration with other Schools and Universities has carried out a significant amount of work into the development of these Fuel Cells to facilitate the production and commercialisation of this hugely important energy supply technology. In addition to its use for research, the system will provide an invaluable demonstration tool to showcase the capabilities of the University of Manchester in this fast moving and vital field of research. Several of the research proposals which will benefit from this equipment have links to North West Industry.</p>

Author(s):

Holmes, S.M.