Fuel cells could have a dramatic and positive impact on the energy system. However, these technologies have not been widely deployed as consumer products. MECH 445/545 (Fuel Cell Systems) reviews the current challenges in three separate modules:
- Technology in Context: Energy System Architecture and Sustainability
- Fuel Cells: Operating Principles and Engineering Applications
- Hydrogen: generation, storage, distribution.
The first module provides an overview of the current energy system: its impacts, architecture, and historical evolution. The second module focuses on the fundamental principles governing fuel cell operation (i.e., thermodynamics and electrochemistry), and the engineering issues related to integrated system operation (electrode materials, fuel conditioning, water management, etc.). The last module reviews the different methods for hydrogen production, storage and distribution.