Fuel cells systems for sustainable ships
L. van Biert (TU Delft - Ship Design, Production and Operations)
K. Visser (TU Delft - Ship Design, Production and Operations)
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Abstract
As shipping is setting sail for a sustainable future, the application of fuel cells is increasingly regarded as a promising technology to reduce or fully eliminate emissions. Fuel cells convert the chemical energy in fuels directly into electricity, achieving high efficiencies while emitting no hazardous compounds and producing little noise and vibrations. This chapter provides an overview of different fuel cell systems and discusses the various fuel cell types, working principles and characteristics. Particular attention is given to the low and high temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell and solid oxide fuel cell, as these are often considered to hold most potential for application in ships. The application of fuel cells is not restricted to the use of pure hydrogen, thus an overview of relevant fuel processing and purification technologies is provided as well. Operational aspects including electrical efficiency, part load performance, load transients, system start-up, heat recovery and combined cycle operation are introduced and subsequently discussed in the context of maritime application. Aspects related to ship design and operation, emission regulation compliance, reliability, availability, maintenance, safety and economics are briefly considered. Finally, an overview of relevant maritime experience and a future outlook are provided.