An air independent fuel cell fuel delivery system that is based on the reaction of aluminum and water with a unique additive package that promotes and controls the rate of hydrogen generation and heat released. The fuel delivery system features a unique design that controls the introduction of fuel to the user, yet allows for rapid refueling between missions. The fuel mixture is packaged in an inexpensive modular approach that facilitates the fueling and defueling process without leakage or packaging failures. Operation of the fuel delivery system features a readily controlled process where only the needed fuel required to operate the platform is provided at the inlet conditions of a PEM fuel cell. As the rate of fuel delivery drops, additional fuel mixture is exposed to water allowing the flow rate to the fuel cell to remain constant. Start-up of the system is rapid and fuel delivery process can be stopped and restarted without any manned intervention. Flow delivery can be varyed thoughout the mission operating scenario from about 2% to 100% of flow requirements.
Benefit: Mission duration has limited the use of unmanned undersea vehicles for both military and commercial applications. Employing a high efficency fuel cell with an energy dense refuelable fuel delivery system may achieve significant increases to mission durations while maintaining the same occupied volume and power levels.
Keywords: Refuelable, Refuelable, Hydrogen Genertion, air independent, Aluminum Mixture, Fuel Delivery System
