Process Analysis of Fuel Cell Systems for Application in Aircraft

摘要

In this work, different fuel cell systems were analyzed for application in aircraft. Apart from the system efficiency, additional aspects like the water balance, the amount and the composition of different off-gases and the areas required for heat exchange were also considered in terms of a statistical parameter variation. Hydrogen- and kerosene-based systems configured for different fuel cell types were analyzed. The process analysis was extended using different ambient conditions based on historical weather data for various locations worldwide. Additionally, representative flight profiles were simulated to have a more realistic idea about the variation of related parameters such as the amount of water produced and the amount and composition of the available off-gas. The results of the process analysis make it possible to predict and compare the performance and suitability of different fuel cell systems for aircraft applications.