Focus Area: Energy Conversion Systems and Thermal Sciences
Fuel cells will play a critical role in satisfying the world's rapidly growing energy demands. Direct electrochemical oxidation enables electricity production at nearly double the efficiency of conventional technology. Pollutant emissions are negligible and operation is nearly silent. Fuel cells can operate on many fuels, including hydrogen, hydrocarbons, and biomass.
Images of optical depth for a diesel spray. Images are from a 15,000 psi injection event from a 160 micron orifice.
Systems are scalable from small portable units to large power plants. They integrate well into hybrid-power solutions. All these benefits promise sustainable energy production and energy security. The CFCC is extraordinarily well positioned to contribute the cutting-edge research and advanced education needed to develop and deploy this extraordinary technology.
Participating faculty:
Neal Sullivan
Robert Kee
Robert Braun
Kevin Moore
Paul Papas
Tyrone Vincent
Huayang Zhu
http://www.coloradofuelcellcenter.org
Energy Conversion Systems and Thermal Sciences Projects
Advanced Measurements in Diesel Sprays
This is an experimental effort that applies advanced laser diagnostics to combusting diesel sprays.
Development of Solid-Oxide Fuel Cells for Use with Hydrocarbon Fuels
PhD student Daniel Storjohann examines his latest tubular solid-oxide fuel cells.
Use of Biomass Fuels in Solid-Oxide Fuel Cells
Graduate students Jamie Daggett and Andrew Colclasure utilize the "Separated Anode Experiment" to evaluate the interactions between solid-oxide fuel cell anodes and the biomass fuel streams to which they are exposed