An integrated MEMS infrastructure for fuel processing: Hydrogen generation and separation for portable power generation

M. J. Varady, L. McLeod, J. M. Meacham, F. L. Degertekin, A. G. Fedorov

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Portable fuel cells are an enabling technology for high efficiency and ultra-high density distributed power generation, which is essential for many terrestrial and aerospace applications. A key element of fuel cell power sources is the fuel processor, which should have the capability to efficiently reform liquid fuels and produce high purity hydrogen that is consumed by the fuel cells. To this end, we are reporting on the development of two novel MEMS hydrogen generators with improved functionality achieved through an innovative process organization and system integration approach that exploits the advantages of transport and catalysis on the micro/nano scale. One fuel processor design utilizes transient, reverse-flow operation of an autothermal MEMS microreactor with an intimately integrated, micromachined ultrasonic fuel atomizer and a Pd/Ag membrane for in situ hydrogen separation from the product stream. The other design features a simpler, more compact planar structure with the atomized fuel ejected directly onto the catalyst layer, which is coupled to an integrated hydrogen selective membrane.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)S257-S264
JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering
Volume17
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2007

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'An integrated MEMS infrastructure for fuel processing: Hydrogen generation and separation for portable power generation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this