Mid-Temperature Fuel Cells for Vehicles

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Program:
OPEN 2012
Award:
$2,113,985
Location:
Salt Lake City, Utah
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
02/01/2013 - 03/31/2017

Technology Description:

Ceramatec is developing a solid-state fuel cell that operates in an ‘intermediate’ temperature range that could overcome persistent challenges faced by both high temperature and low temperature fuel cells. The advantages compared to higher temperature fuel cells are less expensive seals and interconnects, as well as longer lifetime. The advantages compared to low temperature fuel cells are reduced platinum requirements and the ability to run on fuels other than hydrogen, such as natural gas or methanol. Ceramatec’s design would use a new electrolyte material to transport protons within the cell and advanced electrode layers. The project would engineer a fuel cell stack that performs at lower cost than current automotive designs, and culminate in the building and testing of a short fuel cell stack capable of meeting stringent transportation requirements.

Potential Impact:

If successful, Ceramatec’s solid-state fuel cell would help power EVs at a cost and driving range similar to lithium-ion batteries.

Security:

The successful commercialization of this technology would directly enhance the economic and energy security of the U.S. by reducing the dependence of the automotive sector on foreign oil.

Environment:

Enabling the widespread use of fuel cells for advanced vehicle technologies could significantly improve the energy efficiency and emissions of the automotive sector.

Economy:

This technology would ensure the U.S. maintains a technological lead in developing and deploying advanced energy technologies.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Paul Albertus
Project Contact:
Dr. S. Elangovan
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
elango@ceramatec.com

Partners

Nissan Technical Center North America
Los Alamos National Laboratory

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Release Date:
03/02/2012