Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Fuel cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy far more efficiently than combustion processes. A new fuel cell will be developed having a stable, high conductivity, high temperature, proton conducting electrolyte and an active anode catalyst for selective conversion of H2 in (a) syngas (H2 containing up to 60% CO) and H2S - containing syngas. Preliminary experiments showed that compatible doped perovskite anode catalysts have high activity for conversion of H2 and not CO. Further, a new series of ion conductors, Pr doped Ba(Ce,Zr)O3, has high proton conductivity and is stable in CO atmosphere at 600-650 ??°C, with minor electronic conductivity. It is also stable in H2S containing atmosphere. The electrolyte also is compatible with known active cathode catalysts, Pt or LSM. The anode and electrolyte are highly resistant to coking in the presence of CO, and so the fuel cell is expected to have long term stability while converting only the H2 content of syngas, thereby generating electricity, and an effluent rich in CO for use as feedstock for production of petrochemicals. The process will generate less pollutants and greenhouse gases than conventional systems using syngas for generation of heat or electricity. Therefore, it is proposed to develop new technology for more cost effective, more efficient and environmentally friendly utilization of Canada's hydrocarbon resources.