Fuel Cell Supply Integration and Safety

Man-portable fuel cell systems are currently being developed that could replace batteries and provide extended run-time power systems for U.S. Marine Corp tactical systems. However, little attention has been paid on how to safely store, transport and use fuels such as hydrogen, methanol, butane and sodium borohydride that are proposed to run these fuel cell power systems. DOT and DOD regulations that address storage, transportation and use of hazardous materials need to be investigated and defined in order to develop fuel cell tank systems that will meet all DOT and DOD safety requirements. This project proposes to develop man-portable fuel cell tank systems that will meet all DOT and DOD storage, transportation and use safety regulations, allowing fully fueled fuel cell tank systems to be stored and shipped using all approved modes of transportation, including naval aircraft and ships. A cost/benefit trade-off study will be conducted to rank the proposed fuel types and conceptual designs will be developed for at least two fuel cell tank systems using two different fuel types. The fuel cell tank system design concepts will be lightweight, man-portable, low cost, durable, fire, impact and corrosion resistant, and compatible with all storage, transportation and operational environments.