JP-5 Desulfurization System

The major drawback to the use of fuel cells as electric generators and auxiliary power units (APUs) by deployed forces is their inability to directly use battlefield fuels. Both Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells and the Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) require a clean, essentially sulfur-free feed stream to prevent the poisoning of the fuel cell anode catalyst. Unfortunately, battlefield fuels (i.e., JP-5) contain high levels of refractory sulfur species (up to 3,000 ppmw), which need to be removed by advanced fuel processing technologies. TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes to develop a novel sorbent-based desulfurization system, an integral part of a compact and efficient fuel processor, to produce a clean hydrogen feed from high sulfur fuels. In Phase I, we will develop a high capacity, regenerable adsorbent and demonstrate that its potential to reduce the sulfur content of the fuel to sub ppm levels tolerable by the fuel cells. We will show the long-term durability and regeneration capability of the sorbent under representative conditions. Based on experimental data, we will also carry out preliminary design of a desulfurization system integrated to a fuel processor that can deliver sulfur-free feed required to operate a 1 kW fuel cell APU.