MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: Fuel cell technology has progressed to the point where fuel desulfurization and reforming

Description

Fuel cell technology has progressed to the point where fuel desulfurization and reforming have become the limiting factors. Both solid-oxide and polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cells are poisoned by sulfur compounds in the fuel. This Phase II effort will develop a compact, rugged, in-line sensor for measuring total sulfur in JP-8 as it enters the desulfurizer. This sensor will allow better management of the desulfurization equipment and minimize maintenance requirements (e.g., scheduling of regeneration, replacement of consumables). The sensor is small, lightweight, and allows direct measurement of sulfur in the liquid fuel. The sensor is non-destructive and has low power requirements, making continuous, in-line monitoring possible. Technical feasibility was demonstrated in Phase I with real-world JP-8 fuel samples. In Phase II, the sensor will be fine tuned, ruggedized, packaged for use with a JP-8 fuel cell APU, and demonstrated as part of a control strategy to manage desulfurizer regeneration and maintenance. A transition-ready technology demonstrator will be delivered at the end of Phase II.