JP-8 Micro-reformer

"PCI proposes into topic Area 2 to develop and demonstrate a JP-8 micro-reformer capable of delivering the hydrogen required for a 20 We Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) from a catalytic reactor which is expected to be ~1 in3 (size of 2 standard AA batteries)and weighing <100 grams. This combination can be used to meet the power needs of individual soldiers, and scaled up for surveillance and artillery gear, or for auxiliary power units. An efficient, durable, sulfur tolerant, compact and lightweight reformerfor reforming JP-8 to provide fuel for a SOFC would not only far exceed the energy density of batteries, but also operate silently.Major technical hurdles, which include large size and weight, high operating temperatures, inefficient use of expensive catalysts, poor sulfur tolerance, and lack of efficient vaporization and premixing of JP-8 without coking, continue to be significantlimitations of current approaches. Recent progress in short contact time reactor design using PCI's Microlithr technology offers the potential for the development of advanced reformers with a high likelihood of overcoming these barriers. The JP-8 Micro Reformer offers hydrogen generation for solid oxide fuel cells, or with CO clean-up for PEM fuel cells, from an ultra-compact, high efficiency Microlithr reactor having fast start-up, rapid transient response, quiet operation and highselectivity. The specific application targets JP8 as a fuel, although other f