ECO SOUL, News about Hydrogen Fuel

[Wesley Roe and Marjorie Lakin Erickson]

hi Everyone
        This was passed on to me by a member of our guild for distribution

www.ecosoul.org 
  

ABSTRACT 

The use of carbon based fuels currently provides approximately 90% of our
energy needs and is resulting in severe global environmental damage.  Hydrogen
has been identified by many researchers as the ultimate, universal fuel that
could eliminate this problem.  In order to implement a hydrogen
infrastructure/economy advances in hydrogen technology and education must
continue to occur. 

Recently, the Proton Exchange Membrane Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell (PEM
URFC) energy storage systems have out performed expectations in comparison to
individual electrolyzer, storage, and fuel cell units.  The PEM URFC acts much
like a rechargeable battery by converting pure water into hydrogen and oxygen
and storing the pressurized gasses for later use.  When an electrical load is
applied the hydrogen and oxygen are converted back into water and
electricity. 
This process is done quietly, cleanly, efficiently, and safely without many of
the limitations associated with that of conventional batteries. 

The PEM URFC may also assist in the development of more environmentally benign
energy generation methods such as wind and solar.  This technology though must
transfer to the classroom where the next generation of scientists,
technologists, engineers, and researchers can learn about its use. 

A company named Eco-Soul Inc. has recently introduced a PEM URFC classroom
demonstration module.  This module is comprised of a PEM URFC, a small solar
panel, electric motor and battery holder.  The PEM URFC is comprised of a
Nafion 117 proton exchange membrane utilizing a platinum black hydrogen
catalyst and a proprietary noble metal oxygen catalyst.  The membrane and
electrode assembly (MEA) are encased in a uniquely designed, high pressure,
clear polycarbonate shell where bubbles of hydrogen and oxygen can be seen and
heard during charging.  The small solar panel can provide electricity for
charging the PEM URFC in direct sunlight and the battery pack utilized during
indoor or evening demonstrations.  The small electric motor provides the
electrical load by spinning a propeller. 

PEM URFC classroom demonstrator kit from Eco Soul Inc. Sample PEM URFC
learning
kits provided by Eco-Soul Inc. are currently undergoing testing at California
State University, Los Angeles.  This testing includes determining charging and
discarding characteristics and longevity, along with educational use and
effectiveness. 

Based on the preliminary findings of this research it is recommended that
investigation continue on the PEM URFC demonstrator to advance its
development.  Further development of this PEM URFC demonstration module may
lead to significant educational value potentially saving our environment. 
  
  

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