Atmospheric Intelligence for Hybrid Power Advancements: Volume 4 (Hydrogen Fuel Cell Background)

Author(s):

Gail Vaucher, Robert Jane, Michael Lee, Massimo Luciano, Andrew Gatzke, Noah Keith, and Adam Johnson

Abstract:

Diversifying power sources is one way to prepare for the ever-increasing electrical demands on the battlefield, while reducing Soldier vulnerabilities, and producing both physical and fiscal savings. The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory is proactively investigating power resource hybridization with the exploitation of environmental intelligence to optimize integrated energy sources. This report documents foundational information needed to assess and optimize the integration of a hydrogen fuel cell (HFC). The HFC atmospheric dependency assessment was divided into two areas: atmospheric thermodynamics (pressure, temperature, and humidity) and atmospheric composition (oxygen and particulates). A positive correlation between ambient temperature and HFC efficiency was noted. Without a physical unit to test (Phase 2), this Phase 1 investigation defined specific atmospheric variables, sensors, and sampling locations in and around the HFC for study, based on the projected atmospheric impact evaluations. Anticipating favorable Phase 2 field results, key points for integrating an HFC unit into a hybridized power testbed were described. Once the field tests are completed, the proven results will refine the proposed integration design. Ultimately, the integrated design will enable future Soldiers to reduce tactical resupply convoys and to increase the power diversification and resilience required to successfully complete their missions.