The Use of Fuel Cells and Hydrogen on Board Large Civil Aircrafts: Challenges Lying Ahead Regarding Flight Storage Systems and Hydrogen Ground Infrastructure

摘要

While many car manufacturers are preparing for a large scale deployment of FCVs on roads from 2015-2017, civil aircraft manufacturers are considering to use fuel cell systems for airborne applications, including kitchen galleys, emergency or auxiliary power units. Indeed, fuel cells not only produce power but also Oxygen Depleted Air (ODA, suitable for inerting fuel tanks) and water which can both be efficiently re-used on aircraft. Nonetheless, storing Hydrogen onboard poses significant challenges in terms of safety, operations, regulations and certifications. After reviewing potential gas storage requirements for each application, this paper presents various storage solutions ranging from high pressure storage to cryogenic liquid tanks and describes how these challenges can be addressed. The capability to implement such Multi Functional Fuel Cell Systems onboard aircraft will strongly depend on the availability of a competitive ground Hydrogen infrastructure in airports worldwide. The paper presents Air Liquide's vision on the deployment of such an infrastructure, based on its ongoing experience for the automotive market. Possible synergies with other applications such as fuel cell vehicles/loading carts at airports are reviewed as well.