Gas Phase Sulfur Sensor for JP-8 Fueled Auxiliary Power Generation System

Demand for fuel-efficient and reliable electrical power is escalating within the U.S. military. Fuel cells, which provide compact, efficient and energy-dense power, could find immediate application as portable battery chargers, auxiliary power units for silent-watch missions, and primary power for unmanned vehicles. For successful implementation of fuel cells operating on JP-8 logistics fuel, sensors must be developed to continuously monitor sulfur levels in the reformed fuel stream and protect the fuel cell stack from sulfur poisoning. Hydrogen sulfide sensors are commercially available, but they operate in ambient air and at temperatures much lower than those of fuel cell applications. In Phase I of this project, NexTech established a unique ceramic materials technology platform for detecting H2S concentrations at ppb levels in reducing gas streams simulating reformed JP-8 fuels. In Phase II of this project, the sensor technology will be optimized to meet application-specific requirements related to H2S sensitivity, response time and durability, fully functional and packaged prototype sensors will be made and tested in a prototype fuel cell system, and prototype sensors will be delivered to the Army for further testing and validation.