Development of a "4-in-1" Device for Cost Effective and Efficient Production of Hydrogen

A viable approach is needed to economically and efficiently produce pure hydrogen. This project will develop a ¿4-in-1¿ device to thermally consolidate the water-gas-shift reaction by combining hydrogen separation, purification, and compression processes. This device will be built upon a solid-acid proton-conducting electrolyte sandwiched between a thick, porous bi-functional anode and a thin cathode, and will operate in the temperature range between 200ºC and 250ºC. The proposed approach involves fundamental research and development of solid-acid proton-conducting materials, followed by materials synthesis, processing, characterization, and microstructure modification. In Phase I, a bi-functional anode support will be engineered and constructed, providing paths for both water-gas-shift reactions and electrochemical reactions. In Phase II, a prototype ¿4-in-1¿ device consisting of multiple hydrogen production cells will be designed, fabricated, and tested under realistic environmental conditions. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The proposed technology would have the following benefits: (1) low capital cost and operation cost; (2) high efficiency; and (3) scalability to any size process for hydrogen production. Commercial applications include hydrogen forecourt and central production, hydrogen home fueling, and petroleum refineries.