The Unit studies the development and application of Fuel Cells, with a strong emphasis on the basic aspects of electrocatalysis and electrochemical energy conversion, the search of new materials for fuel cell components, design and construction of prototypes with the developed components as well as the integration of the fuel cells in energy conversion systems.
High Temperature Fuel Cells (SOFC, MCFC)
In this area Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells are included. The main research is focused on the development of new materials as electrodes for both types of Fuel Cells, more specifically, synthesis, characterisation and evaluation of novel anodic and cathodic systems for SOFC as well as new cathodes for MCFC. Other important aim is the preparation, by tape-casting and screen-printing, and evaluation of single cells with these new materials under realistic operating conditions.
Low Temperature Fuel Cells (PEMCF)
Synthesis of electrocatalysts for PEMFC by chemical and electrochemical methods; electrochemical characterisation using different techniques such as rotating electrode, on-line mass spectrometry and electrochemical quartz crystal balance; preparation and characterization of electrodes by aerography and electrospray; investigation of membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) hot pressing; single cell and fuel cell stack (up to 1 kW) operation under varying conditions (cell pressure, temperature, humidity and gas composition).
System Integration
Integration of fuel cells into uninterrupted power supply systems. It can be mentioned the integration of PEMFC modules in a stationary power generation system that includes: solar photovoltaic panels, electrolyser for hydrogen generation, metal hydrides for hydrogen storage and batteries. Other application is the exploitation of landfill biogas to produce electricity using a molten carbonate fuel cell.