Integration of a High Power Density Fuel Cell for Hypersonic Vehicle Application

A high power density, hydrogen-oxygen alkaline electrolyte fuel cell (FC) was selected through an extensive multimission suitability trade study to provide electrical power for advanced hypersonic single-stage-to-orbit aerospace vehicles. This paper addresses the key technology issues and design integration concepts of the FC power system for hypersonic vehicle application. To reduce the complexity and weight of the FC accessory control equipment, an innovative concept using an open- cycle, continuous hydrogen purge to remove and dispose of the product water from the cell stack was defined and experimentally verified. A fault tolerant, locally embedded fuel cell control unit (FCCU) was synthesized for antonomous operation of the FC power system.