Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Advanced Cathode Electrolyzer (ACE), Phase II
Project Introduction
The proposed innovation is a static, cathode-fed, 2000 psi, balanced-pressure Advanced Cathode Electrolyzer (ACE) based on PEM electrolysis technology. It electrolyzes water vapor supplied to the hydrogen-evolving electrode and eliminates the need to circulate hydrogen and water on the cathode side of the cell. Innovations include the application of Infinity proprietary cell sealing technology to electrolysis to minimize high-pressure seals and the use of innovative passive current-control techniques to eliminate potential hydrogen gas in feedwater chambers. ACE produces hydrogen and oxygen that is free of liquid water droplets without using dynamic product gas/liquid water phase separation and/or other motorized equipment.
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Anticipated Benefits
Non NASA commercial applications include recharge of fuel cells for telecom backup power, remote off-grid power, undersea fuel cell systems and aircraft and airship energy storage systems A simple reliable modular electrolyzer, that passively and efficiently generates high pressure hydrogen and oxygen, has wide potential application in future NASA missions. These include lunar and planetary fixed base energy storage, recharge of lunar rovers and portable power fuel cells as well as generation of oxygen for crew life support.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. | Lead Organization | Industry | Windsor, Connecticut |
Glenn Research Center
(GRC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Cleveland, Ohio |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Connecticut
-
Ohio
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Organization:
- Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc.
Responsible Program:
- Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Start: Jan 2010
End: Jun 2012
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 4 |
| Current: | 3 |
| Estimated End: | 3 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX03 Aerospace Power and Energy Storage
- TX03.2 Energy Storage
- TX03.2.2 Electrochemical: Fuel Cells
Target Destinations
The Moon, Mars
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This is a historic project that was completed before the creation of TechPort on October 1, 2012. Available data has been included. This record may contain less data than currently active projects.