Effect of cathode conditions on performance of direct borohydride-hydrogen peroxide fuel cell system for space exploration

Fuel cell tests are conducted under various cathode conditions to investigate the effect of cathode conditions on the performance of a direct borohydride-hydrogen peroxide fuel cell (DBHPFC) system. The efficiency and mass of the virtual DBHPFC system are estimated based on experimental data obtained from the fuel cell tests. The type of cathode electrocatalyst considerably affects the performance and mass of the fuel cell system. Ni is the most suitable for the cathode owing to its high fuel utilization efficiency and low cost. The H2O2 concentration has a minimal effect on the performance of the fuel cell system but considerably affects the mass of the fuel cell system. The mass of the fuel cell system negatively correlates with the H2O2 concentration. The H3PO4 concentration and operating temperature have a negligible effect on the performance and mass of the fuel cell system; 5 wt% H3PO4 is sufficient to suppress the decomposition reaction and improve the fuel cell performance. Operation at room temperature is recommended for high fuel utilization efficiency. The decomposition reaction rate affects the efficiency and mass of the DBHPFC system. Consequently, the decomposition and electrochemical reaction rates should be considered when determining suitable cathode conditions for the DBHPFC system. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The type of cathode electrocatalyst significantly affects the performance and mass of the fuel cell system, with Ni being the most suitable material. Hydrogen peroxide concentration has minimal effect on performance but considerable effect on mass. Phosphoric acid concentration and operating temperature have negligible effects on system performance and mass.