Advanced Hybrid Water-Heater using ECC

This proposal is based on a transformational and disruptive technology of utilizing electrochemical compression to operate heat pump cycles. Xergy Inc. has exhibited a demonstration unit of its Kuel-cell device, and engaged in thermodynamic simulations utilizing water as the working fluid in order to propose the use of this Kuel-cell technology for hybrid hot water systems. Simulations utilizing ProSim Software, have indicated that COPs in the range of 4 (vs. 2.4 for comparable operating conditions provided by GE for GeoSpring hybrid) are attainable in advanced hybrid hot water heaters utilizing the Kuel-CellTM electrochemical compressor. And thus a smaller size 350 Watt compressor can be engaged, with alternative form factors in addition to other benefits such as noiseless and vibration free operation. Key components for this cell have been specified and need to be optimized. A work plan has been provided to develop discrete components and eventually build a bench top prototype during phase 1 of this SBIR program with a vision towards development of a product that can be commercialized during phase II (if awarded). The improved efficiency of the system (i.e. COP) not only enables a smaller size compressor to be utilized, but also results in significant reduction in operating costs (i.e. electric power utilization). In addition, the compressor provides an alternative form factor for designers. When all this is taken in conjunction with other inherent benefits of electrochemical compression such as noise-less operation, vibration free operation, and the use of a non-GWP refrigerant provide a compelling value proposition that would inspire significant market interest and penetration, which in turn would result in the development of serious sales volumes which will be required to attain mass production. Once the product is mass produced, the proposal has demonstrated how cost targets enabling market pricing of $500 can be met.