Connecticut Valley Section of the ACS: May Dinner Meeting
Monday, May 24, 2004 at the Radisson Hotel, Springfield-Enfield
The Hydrogen
Economy
Demonstrations with
a Solar Energy/Electrolyzer/Fuel Cell Toy
James M. Fenton, Professor of Chemical Engineering,
University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
Dr.
Fenton will demonstrate experiments using a “toy” that allow students to study
the principles of fuel cell operation and familiarize themselves with fuel cell
performance as a function of oxidant composition and reactant flow rates. In
addition to performance, analyses on the proton exchange membrane (reactant
crossover) and the catalyst (electrochemically active surface area) can be
performed with a minimum of added effort.
The experimental setup (a solar panel, a water electrolyzer and a PEMFC)
is an entirely self-contained apparatus that clearly demonstrates the concepts
of renewable energy. The electricity generated can run a motor or be fed into
an electronic load, permitting the observation of voltage – current characteristics
of the fuel cell. Come and see Dr.
Fenton’s radio controlled fuel cell powered toy truck in action!
Dr.
Fenton will also conduct a brief discussion of his research at UConn toward
improving the performance of an innovative proton exchange membrane that
provides excellent ionic conductivity in an under-saturated environment. Membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs) have
also been developed for this environment.
Time: 6:00 p.m. Social Hour
6:45 p.m. Buffet Dinner
7:45 p.m. Presentation by Dr. James Fenton
Location: Radisson Hotel, Springfield-Enfield
One Bright Meadow Boulevard, Enfield, CT
(860) 741-2211
Directions: Exit 49 off Interstate 91
From the north: Take a left off the interstate.
At the second light, turn right.
From the south: Take a right off the interstate.
Turn right to the hotel.
Cost: $25.00 per person
RSVP: By Friday, May 14 to Jane Knox, jane.knox@uconn.edu
Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, (860) 486-6646