Low-Temperature, Hydride-Based, High Purity Hydrogen Generator

A supported metal hydride with high gravimetric hydrogen density and high volumetric hydrogen density has been proposed for application as a hydrogen generating material for Army soldier-portable fuel cell generator requirements. The hydride is thermodynamically capable of releasing pure hydrogen at less than 80C. Quantitative demonstration of increased hydrogen production rate, reduced operating temperature, and increased reactant conversion relative to the unsupported hydride will be achieved. The low decomposition temperature and high hydrogen gravimetric density will facilitate the devleopment of a compact, simple and reliable fuel cell generator.