A proposed miniature device for ionizing the oxygen (or other oxidizing gas) in a fuel cell would consist mostly of a membrane ionizer using the same principles as those of the device described in the earlier article, “Miniature Bipolar Electrostatic Ion Thruster” (NPO-21057). The oxidizing gas would be completely ionized upon passage through the holes in the membrane ionizer. The resulting positively charged atoms or molecules of oxidizing gas could then, under the influence of the fringe fields of the ionizer, move toward the fuel-cell cathode that would be part of a membrane/electrode assembly comprising the cathode, a solid-electrolyte membrane, and an anode. The electro- oxidized state of the oxidizer atoms and molecules would enhance transfer of them through the cathode, thereby reducing the partial pressure of the oxidizer gas between the ionizer and the fuelcell cathode, thereby, in turn, causing further inflow of oxidizer gas through the holes in the membrane ionizer. Optionally the ionizer could be maintained at a positive electric potential with respect to the cathode, in which case the resulting electric field would accelerate the ions toward the cathode.
This work was done by Frank Hartley of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. (reference NPO-21087) is currently available for download from the TSP library. Don't have an account? The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, specifically focusing on the Miniature Oxidizer Ionizer for a Fuel Cell, designated as NPO-21087. It is part of NASA Tech Briefs, which disseminate information about aerospace-related developments that have potential applications beyond their original context. The Miniature Oxidizer Ionizer is a technological advancement aimed at improving fuel cell efficiency and performance. Fuel cells are devices that convert chemical energy from fuels into electrical energy through electrochemical reactions, and the role of oxidizers is crucial in this process. The ionizer is designed to enhance the oxidation process, potentially leading to more efficient energy conversion and reduced emissions. The document emphasizes the importance of this technology within the framework of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which seeks to promote the commercialization of aerospace innovations. By making such technologies available, NASA aims to foster wider technological, scientific, and commercial applications, thereby benefiting various industries. Additionally, the Technical Support Package provides information on how to access further resources related to research and technology in this area. It directs readers to the NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office, where additional publications and assistance can be obtained. The STI Program Office serves as a hub for disseminating NASA's research findings and technological advancements. The document also includes a disclaimer regarding the liability of the United States Government and its representatives concerning the use of the information contained within. It clarifies that any mention of trade names or manufacturers is for identification purposes only and does not imply official endorsement by NASA. In summary, the Technical Support Package for the Miniature Oxidizer Ionizer for a Fuel Cell outlines a significant technological development by NASA, aimed at enhancing fuel cell performance. It highlights the agency's commitment to sharing innovations that can have broader applications and provides guidance for accessing further information on related research and technology.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Miniature Oxidizer Ionizer for a Fuel Cell
Overview
