signature=48103a3afac469f01b9e56842d44e7bb,Portable Tubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems for Milita...

【摘要】

Adaptive Materials has developed micro-tubular fell cell systems for military applications in the 20 to 150W power range. Often overlooked at the lower power levels, Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology offers a few key advantages for use in military applications. Among these advantages is the use of commercially available light hydrocarbons as a fuel source and the potential to migrate to heavy hydrocarbons like JP8. In addition, use of energy dense hydrocarbons like propane, enable AMI systems to operate at energy densities in excess of 1200 watt-hours/kg (20W), with the future potential opportunity to exceed 1600 wh/kg over a ten day mission. These metrics far exceed current battery technologies and offer a significant weight reduction for individual soldiers. Adaptive Materials has conducted some initial field testing of its systems and has overcome some major obstacles in commercializing this technology for military applications. This paper addresses some of the most critical and often identified challenges associated with the use of SOFC systems in the military. These challenges include: size, durability, net system efficiency, operation in extreme environments, load following, thermal and acoustic signatures, and sulfur tolerance.