Advanced Chemical Hydride-Based Fuel Cell Systems for Portable Military Applications

The modern military continues to introduce advanced electronic devices such as night vision equipment, global positioning systems, laser range finders and target designators, digital communications systems, remote networking and intelligence gathering sensors. These new technologies are generating ever-increasing power requirements for the modern soldier, and today s state-of-the- art batteries and other traditional power generation sources are failing to keep pace with these growing power needs. New technologies are emerging as possible solutions to this problem, with fuel cell technology considered the most promising. Hydrogen fuel cells are of particular interest due to low temperature operation, prompt cold start-up and relative technology readiness, among other benefits. Paired with silent, reliable hydrogen fuel cell power systems, chemical hydrides can provide very high energy density for use in demanding portable applications. Sodium borohydride, which is currently employed in Protonex systems, is also non-toxic, nonflammable, and cost-effective. These integrated systems are well-suited for military applications, as they are able to meet demanding performance targets such as ultra-low weight, wide operating temperature range, and low heat and noise profiles.