Parametric Analyses of 1.5-kW Methanol Fuel Cell Power Plant Designs.

Abstract : In recent years, spurred by the changing availability of petroleum fuels, the Army has begun to investigate the use of alternative fuels such as methanol. Under its SLEEP(Silent Lightweight Electric Energy Plants) program, MERADCOM has sponsored a design investigation to determine the viability of a methanol-fueled 1.5-kW fuel cell power plant for field service. The design is based on a low-temperature reformer and a commercial phosphoric-acid-technology fuel cell stack. Comparison of predicted power plant characteristics with goal Purchase Description Requirements shows that the concept has sufficient potential to be pursued further. Experimental work shows commercial-methanol fuels containing higher alcohols may be suitable fuels for this power plant. Additional experimental work and system analysis are needed to finalize reformer and power plant operating conditions and characteristics.