DOE perspective on fuel cells in transportation
Fuel cells are one of the most promising technologies for meeting the rapidly growing demand for transportation services while minimizing adverse energy and environmental impacts. This paper reviews the benefits of introducing fuel cells into the transportation sector; in addition to dramatically reduced vehicle emissions, fuel cells offer the flexibility than use petroleum-based or alternative fuels, have significantly greater energy efficiency than internal combustion engines, and greatly reduce noise levels during operation. The rationale leading to the emphasis on proton-exchange-membrane fuel cells for transportation applications is reviewed as are the development issues requiring resolution to achieve adequate performance, packaging, and cost for use in automobiles. Technical targets for power density, specific power, platinum loading on the electrodes, cost, and other factors that become increasingly more demanding over time have been established. Fuel choice issues and pathways to reduced costs and to a renewable energy future are explored. One such path initially introduces fuel cell vehicles using reformed gasoline while-on-board hydrogen storage technology is developed to the point of allowing adequate range (350 miles) and refueling convenience. This scenario also allows time for renewable hydrogen production technologies and the required supply infrastructure to develop. Finally, the DOE Fuel Cells in Transportation program is described. The program, whose goal is to establish the technology for fuel cell vehicles as rapidly as possible, is being implemented by means of the United States Fuel Cell Alliance, a Government-industry alliance that includes Detroit`s Big Three automakers, fuel cell and other component suppliers, the national laboratories, and universities.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 269280
- Report Number(s):
- SAND-96-0945; CONF-9509355-; ON: DE96010752; TRN: 96:003872-0011
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: U. S. Russian workshop on fuel cell technologies, Albuquerque, NM (United States), 26-28 Sep 1995; Other Information: PBD: Apr 1996; Related Information: Is Part Of Proceedings -- US Russian workshop on fuel cell technologies; Baker, B.; Sylwester, A. [comps.]; PB: 695 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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