Hydrogen Production Process Intensification Technology

90690 There is a need to develop simplified hydrogen production and delivery technology so as to make alternative power generation devices such as fuel cells more reliable and cost effective. Successful implementation of these devices for numerous applications, including transportation and stationary power, will have a positive impact on the energy security and of the United States and the environment. Current methods used to process hydrogen include mechanical compressors followed by passive membrane separation systems. Together these processes are costly and are not amenable to variable operating modes or low volume applications. The problem is being addressed by utilizing an electrochemical method which combines hydrogen recovery, purification, pumping, and pressurization into a single, cost effective, efficient, and non-mechanical process. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The commercial benefits of the H2Pump device, in addition to simplifying hydrogen processing costs for the emerging alternative power generation applications, are realized in the immediate application of hydrogen recovery and recycling in industrial processes. Most industrial hydrogen is vented or combusted after use and H2Pump