- Email: [email protected]
Hydrogen and fuel cell activities at UNIDO-ICHET
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Available at www.sciencedirect.com
journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/he
Hydrogen and fuel cell activities at UNIDO-ICHET M. Suha Yazici* UNIDO International Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies, Sabri Ulker Sk, 38/4, Cevizlibag-Zeytinburnu, 34015 Istanbul, Turkey
article info
abstract
Article history:
To place hydrogen energy usage into proper perspective, International Center for Hydrogen
Received 30 March 2009
Energy Technologies (ICHET) has been implementing measures to demonstrate potential
Accepted 30 April 2009
benefits of the ‘‘hydrogen and fuel cell systems’’ in developing countries. Demonstration of
Available online 2 June 2009
technologies is the most important aspect of ICHET vision for the formation of an industry in the developing world. ICHET has embarked on a series of educational and laboratory
Keywords:
activities designed to increase the knowledge and awareness of students and advanced
Hydrogen education
researchers concerning hydrogen energy technologies. The state of the art fuel cell labo-
Renewable energy
ratory is available for joint technology development and demonstration activities. Intern-
Fuel cell demonstration
ship activities facilitate knowledge transfer, exchange of information at regional, national
Developing countries
and international levels and involve academics, researchers, experts and service providers. Collaboration is a key part of the organizational strategy for joint projects, funding and trainings in the field of hydrogen and fuel cells. ª 2009 Professor T. Nejat Veziroglu. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
1.
Introduction
Increasing fuel demand from developing countries is constantly pressurizing world economies to find alternative energy sources. Climate impact is other major concerns that new energy sources should not contribute greenhouse gases that trap excess heat from the sun’s radiation. When we use hydrogen in high efficiency fuel cells for our transportation and to generate power using renewable resources, nuclear power, or clean fossil technologies, we can significantly reduce or eliminate CO2 productions [1]. Hydrogen can be made from a variety of domestic resources through different technologies. The compatibility of hydrogen to both electrochemical and combustion processes makes hydrogen superior than any other alternative. Thus it is not surprising that, since the mid-1990s,
there has been growing worldwide interest in a renewable hydrogen economy and fuel cell technology, as reflected in the dramatic increase in public and private sector fundings. International partnerships are also emerging to provide the infrastructure to organize, evaluate, and coordinate multinational R&D and deployment programs to speed the transition to a global hydrogen economy. Fuel cells with their numerous possible applications may actually be the main driver for hydrogen economy. Today many fuel cell technologies exist that can use hydrogen to power cars, trucks, forklifts, remote and secure facilities, electrical plants, and buildings, though absence of hydrogen infrastructure prevents its practical use. The most critical issues facing commercialization of fuel cell technologies are i) cost, ii) durability, and iii) infrastructure for hydrogen production, storage and transportation.
* Tel.: þ90 212 416 4848; fax: þ90 212 416 8947. E-mail address: [email protected] 0360-3199/$ – see front matter ª 2009 Professor T. Nejat Veziroglu. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.ijhydene.2009.04.072
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
2. UNIDO-ICHET effort on hydrogen and fuel cells in the developing world The hydrogen economy promises to eliminate environmental problems fossil fuel economy has created worldwide. Specifically, the hydrogen economy may be even more beneficial to developing countries because it will generate economic opportunities, reduce poverty and offer a dramatically cleaner renewable resource. Each individual could become the producer as well as the consumer of their energy. There are good national examples to look at for new energy inspiration. Icelanders are working towards creating the world’s first hydrogen society. In addition to various demonstrations of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, Iceland is utilizing its geothermal energy potential to power its transportation system. Virtually all of its electricity and heating comes from hydroelectric power and the geothermal water reserves. To achieve significant progress on hydrogen technologies in developing countries, governments must develop and implement favorable policies to make renewable and hydrogen energy priority. Government subsidies and tax incentives could be used to encourage foreign investors for mass production. A ‘‘National Hydrogen Energy Roadmap’’ is essential to develop with extensive brainstorming. Code and standards have to be developed for hydrogen production, transportation, storage and conversion. There has to be coherent actions between various organizations to effectively implement policies. International Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies (ICHET) under the authority of UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) is trying to become a catalyst to implement hydrogen and fuel cell demonstrations in Turkey and in developing countries [2].
2.1.
Demonstrations
It is rather difficult for hydrogen energy projects to receive funding in developing countries from local sources. ICHET is undertaking feasibility studies for the realization of hydrogen energy projects in developing countries as the first step towards providing technical and financial support. Two studies titled ‘Market Potential for Hydrogen Production from Hydrogen Sulphide in the Black Sea’ and ‘‘Wind Desalination
2755
and Hydrogen Power for Cape Verde’’ are currently supported for feasibility studies prior to realizing a pilot project. A similar earlier feasibility study resulted realizing a pilot project in India. ICHET takes a more proactive role with support for the realization of small-scale pilot projects in selected countries and provides finances up to $500,000 with at least 50% costshare. In India, ICHET is supporting a project involving the operation of approximately 15 rickshaws modified to use hydrogen fuel in internal combustion engines in and around the city of New Delhi (Fig. 1). When established, its location will ensure high visibility for the project and will demonstrate the suitability of clean hydrogen fuel in environmentally sensitive areas. In Morocco, ICHET is part of a team to investigate the interaction of wind energy technologies and hydrogen technologies and study the optimal operating modes in terms of directly using the electricity produced by the wind turbine, or converting it to hydrogen, storing it and then re-electrifying the hydrogen through fuel cells. In Turkey, ICHET has several local projects for various hydrogen and fuel cell technology demonstrations. ICHET is in negotiation to form a consortium to produce hydrogen for energy storage using Kobold turbines powered by sea currents. Subject project will be utilized at Bosphorus. Hydrogen Island project in Bozcaada Island targets to install 25 kW wind power coupled with 20 kW PV installation in an island in Turkey to power two government building (Fig. 2). Electricity produced will be utilized by a 25 kW electrolyzer for hydrogen production to be used in a small boat, and passenger-cart for island transportation as well as fuel for oven-top cooker. Fuel Cell Powered fork-lift project is a joint venture involving local companies, and aimed at realizing the utilization of 8 kW fuel cells in forklifts (Fig. 3). Objectives of the projects are to replace existing battery technology in forklifts, to increase productivity by reducing refueling times, to provide consistent and abundant power while releasing no harmful emissions, and more importantly involve local companies to get accustomed with such technologies. Trial runs and demonstrations of the applicability of the technology to industrial conditions are scheduled. ICHET is externally supporting a Fuel Cell Boat Demonstration project managed by the Istanbul Municipality. Istanbul Sea Transportation Authority (IDO) plans to operate a 50-passenger electric motor boat powered by a fuel cell to
Fig. 1 – An early tri-wheeler prototype with hydrogen-ICE (courtesy of Mahindra & Mahindra).
2756
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Fig. 2 – Schematic of power sources and distribution in Bozcaada Island implementation.
demonstrate the provision of clean, noiseless and continuous electric power while increasing public awareness of applications of environmental energy technologies. Another important objective of the project is to encourage and motivate local companies to take part and invest in hydrogen energy technologies. As part of this project, Turkey’s first filling station
with capabilities to fill-up both a boat and a bus will be installed at Golden Horn in Istanbul. ICHET is in the process of installing several fuel cell based un-interruptible power supply (FC-UPS) at various locations in Istanbul. This project will introduce 5–10 kW fuel cell based UPS systems to targeted application areas. The first 5 kW system is installed at Istanbul Sea Authority Headquarters to provide power to lights, cameras, servers and sound system for the passenger waiting area (Fig. 4). Fuel cell based (FCB) un-interruptible power supply (UPS) systems are considered as an early commercial opportunity for the market penetration of fuel cells. Tourist attractions, ticket office for ferries and telecommunication companies have been selected as potentially viable installation sites due to their high visibility. The overall objective of this activity is to introduce awareness of environmentally friendly energy technologies. A long-term objective of the project is to get sufficient material and component support for system integrators in developing countries to create local industries.
2.2.
Fig. 3 – Fuel cell powered forklift.
R&D activities
ICHET has been supporting applied R&D activities with 100% funding in a collaboration manner. In one project, hydrogen permeation in thermo-plastic pipe materials are explored to demonstrate reliable thermo plastic pipes that can carry hydrogen over long distances (Fig. 5). Cukurova University is supported in two R&D projects. One project objective is to produce hydrogen from biomass-derived aqueous solutions and from domestic or industrial organic rich waste water by developing processing systems in which certain microbes (bacteria) and electrochemical approaches are coupled for enhancing the performance regarding hydrogen production. For this purpose, two different approaches were chosen to be tested and then carry on with the more promising approach. In the first approach, the so-called dissimulator metal reducing bacteria (e.g. Shewanella oneidensis MR-1) would be used to reduce ferric ions to ferrous state in a separate
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
2757
Fig. 4 – 5 kW fuel cell UPS system at application site.
bioreactor and then circulate this aqueous solution in an electrolyzer in which while ferrous ions are being oxidized back to the ferric state in anodic compartment, hydrogen should evolve from the cathode part. The second approach is to adsorb exoelectrogenic bacteria on the carbon electrodes and then use these electrodes in either one compartment or two compartment electrolytic cells. The substrate will be either organic rich domestic or industrial waste water or lignocelluloses-derived aqueous solutions. In both approaches the applied external voltages will be much less than the one applied in conventional electrolysis of water. In the second project Cukurova University researchers are developing technologies for gasification of lignocellulosic biomass by using the novel method of Aqueous Phase Reforming (APR). The lignocellulosic biomass will first be converted into water-soluble products by catalytic thermal treatment in water under mild temperature and pressure conditions and then subjected to Aqueous Phase Reforming (APR) for converting the solubilized carbohydrates and others into hydrogen gas. As part of applied R&D activities, ICHET internally implementing projects with engineering students. A small tri-wheel scooter, suitable for handicapped people to use, was converted to fuel cell power utilizing hydrogen as fuel. Similarly, a four-passenger cart was integrated with a 2 kW fuel cell along with the necessary fuelling options and controls. Control hardware and software are developed to enable the hybrid battery-fuel cell vehicles to function smoothly. Vehicle performance analysis, sizing of the various system components and modeling will be carried out as part of a master program with a local university. Project will look for sponsors and contributors during the demonstration phase. A mobile caravan fueled by renewable energies has been designed by a team of multi-disciplinary graduate students. Based on system design and modeling, 15 m2 usable space with a bathroom, kitchen and living room is supported with 1 kW
(3 kW capable) wind turbine together with 800 W solar panels. Inside, 2 kW-fuel-cell provides power when needed. A hydrogen cooker is utilized in the kitchen receiving hydrogen from on board electrolyzer. With the above projects (Fig. 6), practical engineering experience of assembly, integration and system control of fuel cell-battery powered hybrid systems with PV, wind turbine and electrolyzer are gained. A long-term objective of the project is to push for use of fuel cell powered vehicles in public places and encourage local industry to manufacture similar vehicles and explore market potential for such use. As a benefit of this activity, public awareness on applications of renewable and fuel cell technologies will increase and viability of such systems will be demonstrated to change public perception.
Fig. 5 – Plastic piping with multi-layer aluminum coating.
2758
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
In addition to internal R&D projects, ICHET is issuing ‘‘Call for Proposals’’ for Turkish hydrogen and fuel cell community to take part. Very recent calls to promote hydrogen and fuel cell development in Turkey include ‘‘Photo-electrochemical hydrogen production’’, ‘‘3 kW fuel cell system developments’’ and ‘‘3 kW fuel cell CHP system developments’’. Formation of consortium comprising universities, research institutes, both private and public sectors is encouraged.
These projects will be on R&D basis having a strong prototypedevelopment component. The projects are expected to deliver benchmark studies with the relevant state-of-the-art technologies, compare the competing hydrogen production technologies from financial and technological points of views and construct prototype units to demonstrate and to yield data to be used in modeling/scaling-up and techno-economic analysis.
Fig. 6 – Mobility vehicles integrated at ICHET projects.
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Fig. 7 – One of the cover pages for monthly E-Newsletter.
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2.3.
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Collaboration and educational activities
The quality of R&D activities in developing countries is strongly affected by the available equipment and resources. The goal of this activity has been to improve ICHET research infrastructure by establishing new laboratories and acquiring additional equipment, with the aim of enabling cross-utilization of existing and established capabilities between ICHET and other countries. The laboratories are equipped with stateof-the art instruments selected for a wide range of projects. The laboratories are used to provide training and education of the researchers from the developing countries. Visiting scientists from developed countries were also to be accepted, provided they were involved in a joint R&D project with ICHET. ICHET has fully functional fuel cell testing and analytical laboratory with the following equipment: Two, 125 W fuel cell test stations; two, 1 kW fuel cell test stations; five electrolyzer; metal hydride cylinders with 10,000 l total storage capacity; potentiostat, galvanostat and AC impedance spectroscopy equipment; gas chromatograph; FTIR; gas adsorption analyzer; glove box; UV–Visible Spectrometer; HPLC; optical contact angle/surface tension meter analyzer; surface area and porosity analyzer and TGA/DSC thermal analyzer. ICHET is utilizing laboratory capabilities during short course trainings on various hydrogen energy technologies. A wide range of practical information and research subjects including, electrochemistry, hydrogen production and storage technologies, renewable (solar; PV; electrolysis) and fuel cell technologies and engineering, are covered in these courses. Technologies are emphasized with lectures being presented in the morning followed by afternoon sessions in the laboratory where the participants could assess some techniques for themselves. Laboratory hands-on work is encouraged and given priority considering limited laboratory infrastructure in developing countries. More than 45 international participants from 10 different countries have utilized our laboratories during a 5-day long summer school very recently. Under sponsorship and internship program, national and international students are given opportunity to participate in hydrogen and fuel cell related technology training and internships. Internship activities facilitate knowledge transfer, exchange of information at regional, national and international levels. Every summer ICHET accepts about 5–7 summer interns to work on various subjects for duration of 20–30 days. Master and Ph.D. students are supported parttime basis to work at ICHET helping staff on hydrogen fuel cell related activities while working towards their degrees. Since 2005, more than 60 students have been supported under this program. ICHET has been receiving visiting scientists for postdoctoral stays from other countries including India, Pakistan (2), Iraq, Germany, USA, Egypt and Turkey (2). Student competitions aimed at introducing hydrogen and fuel cells into educational curriculum. This activity involves direct communication with school management and teachers for training and curriculum development; distribution of hydrogen educational kits; and undertaking school projects. With the above objectives in mind, ICHET organized a competition in Istanbul involving 15 science high schools to assemble a fuel cell model car with on board hydrogen
storage. Each entry was assessed on speed and overall design. This was the first such an event in Turkey and further events are planned. A similar activity is organized to encourage universities and companies to take part in environmentally friendly energy and alternative power conversion technologies. In this case, ten proposals to construct boats powered by 4 kW fuel cells and hydrogen fuel will be sponsored. Activity will give students from different engineering background opportunity to work on practical engineering design and problems. A monthly e-publication is an integral part of ICHET activity targeting high schools in Turkey and developing countries. Purpose of the activity is to educate teachers and students; disseminate hydrogen information at high school level and to become a point of contact for projects and support. E-Newsletter is prepared both in Turkish (H2 Haber) and English (H2 News) (Fig. 7). Currently, it is distributed to more than 4000 email addresses in Turkey. The program is extended to cover other countries. Several hundred printed versions were sent to South Africa for their Science Fair. In 2007, ICHET formally launched its collaboration activities to strengthen its position in the hydrogen community. ICHET joined the Joint Technology Initiative (JTI) for Fuel Cells and Hydrogen which is a public–private partnership coordinating research, development and demonstration program to facilitate efforts towards a rapid deployment of fuel cells and hydrogen technologies with commitment from more than 45 organizations. ICHET also became a member of the European Research Grouping formed by European non-profit organizations under the umbrella of The European Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Technology Platform (HFP). UNIDO is signing International Energy Agency (IEA)-Hydrogen Implementing Agreement (HIA) to take part in global research activities. Discussions exploring possible joint collaboration between the EU Joint Research Centre (JRC), Institute for Energy (IE) and ICHET have resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to have better alignment with hydrogen and fuel cell initiatives around the world, ICHET is taking the lead to establish Turkish Hydrogen Association. The value of creating the Turkish Hydrogen Association is first to coordinate and accelerate the codes and standards, education, research and demonstration activities within Turkey. Organization, once established, will involve coordination and learning activities of PATH, the Partnership for Advancing the Transition to Hydrogen, the international coalition of hydrogen associations.
3.
Conclusions
The transition to a ‘‘Hydrogen Economy’’ has already begun and the world is already moving towards acceptance of hydrogen as a viable alternative carrier of energy. This transition may take several decades to complete. ICHET is actively looking for funding partners to be more influential on this transition and increase international dimensions of the center. While technological advancements are focus of research and development institutions, government incentives are necessary to bridge the time and cost gap to encourage public for use of renewable energy and hydrogen.
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
ICHET is taking its position in the hydrogen world as to prepare developing countries to contribute to the hydrogen economy through the creation of skill sets and industrial awareness for social and economic benefits of hydrogen energy technologies. However, the most significant impact of these activities is to be educating the public about hydrogen energy and its future role. At the end, public will be well informed, involved and ready to take action towards climate and energy problems facing the world in the coming years. This would lead to enough momentum to influence policies, accelerate public interest in hydrogen technologies leading to a creation of a technology network for competitive
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advantage unlocking the energy potential of developing countries.
references
[1] Barbir F, Yazici S. Status and development of PEM fuel cell technology. International Journal of Energy Research 2007; 32(5):369–78. [2] Yazici MS. Hydrogen and fuel cell education – outreach activities at UNIDO-ICHET. In: 18th World hydrogen energy conference (WHEC08), Brisbane, Australia, June 15–19, 2008.
Available at www.sciencedirect.com
journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/he
Hydrogen and fuel cell activities at UNIDO-ICHET M. Suha Yazici* UNIDO International Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies, Sabri Ulker Sk, 38/4, Cevizlibag-Zeytinburnu, 34015 Istanbul, Turkey
article info
abstract
Article history:
To place hydrogen energy usage into proper perspective, International Center for Hydrogen
Received 30 March 2009
Energy Technologies (ICHET) has been implementing measures to demonstrate potential
Accepted 30 April 2009
benefits of the ‘‘hydrogen and fuel cell systems’’ in developing countries. Demonstration of
Available online 2 June 2009
technologies is the most important aspect of ICHET vision for the formation of an industry in the developing world. ICHET has embarked on a series of educational and laboratory
Keywords:
activities designed to increase the knowledge and awareness of students and advanced
Hydrogen education
researchers concerning hydrogen energy technologies. The state of the art fuel cell labo-
Renewable energy
ratory is available for joint technology development and demonstration activities. Intern-
Fuel cell demonstration
ship activities facilitate knowledge transfer, exchange of information at regional, national
Developing countries
and international levels and involve academics, researchers, experts and service providers. Collaboration is a key part of the organizational strategy for joint projects, funding and trainings in the field of hydrogen and fuel cells. ª 2009 Professor T. Nejat Veziroglu. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
1.
Introduction
Increasing fuel demand from developing countries is constantly pressurizing world economies to find alternative energy sources. Climate impact is other major concerns that new energy sources should not contribute greenhouse gases that trap excess heat from the sun’s radiation. When we use hydrogen in high efficiency fuel cells for our transportation and to generate power using renewable resources, nuclear power, or clean fossil technologies, we can significantly reduce or eliminate CO2 productions [1]. Hydrogen can be made from a variety of domestic resources through different technologies. The compatibility of hydrogen to both electrochemical and combustion processes makes hydrogen superior than any other alternative. Thus it is not surprising that, since the mid-1990s,
there has been growing worldwide interest in a renewable hydrogen economy and fuel cell technology, as reflected in the dramatic increase in public and private sector fundings. International partnerships are also emerging to provide the infrastructure to organize, evaluate, and coordinate multinational R&D and deployment programs to speed the transition to a global hydrogen economy. Fuel cells with their numerous possible applications may actually be the main driver for hydrogen economy. Today many fuel cell technologies exist that can use hydrogen to power cars, trucks, forklifts, remote and secure facilities, electrical plants, and buildings, though absence of hydrogen infrastructure prevents its practical use. The most critical issues facing commercialization of fuel cell technologies are i) cost, ii) durability, and iii) infrastructure for hydrogen production, storage and transportation.
* Tel.: þ90 212 416 4848; fax: þ90 212 416 8947. E-mail address: [email protected] 0360-3199/$ – see front matter ª 2009 Professor T. Nejat Veziroglu. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.ijhydene.2009.04.072
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
2. UNIDO-ICHET effort on hydrogen and fuel cells in the developing world The hydrogen economy promises to eliminate environmental problems fossil fuel economy has created worldwide. Specifically, the hydrogen economy may be even more beneficial to developing countries because it will generate economic opportunities, reduce poverty and offer a dramatically cleaner renewable resource. Each individual could become the producer as well as the consumer of their energy. There are good national examples to look at for new energy inspiration. Icelanders are working towards creating the world’s first hydrogen society. In addition to various demonstrations of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, Iceland is utilizing its geothermal energy potential to power its transportation system. Virtually all of its electricity and heating comes from hydroelectric power and the geothermal water reserves. To achieve significant progress on hydrogen technologies in developing countries, governments must develop and implement favorable policies to make renewable and hydrogen energy priority. Government subsidies and tax incentives could be used to encourage foreign investors for mass production. A ‘‘National Hydrogen Energy Roadmap’’ is essential to develop with extensive brainstorming. Code and standards have to be developed for hydrogen production, transportation, storage and conversion. There has to be coherent actions between various organizations to effectively implement policies. International Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies (ICHET) under the authority of UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) is trying to become a catalyst to implement hydrogen and fuel cell demonstrations in Turkey and in developing countries [2].
2.1.
Demonstrations
It is rather difficult for hydrogen energy projects to receive funding in developing countries from local sources. ICHET is undertaking feasibility studies for the realization of hydrogen energy projects in developing countries as the first step towards providing technical and financial support. Two studies titled ‘Market Potential for Hydrogen Production from Hydrogen Sulphide in the Black Sea’ and ‘‘Wind Desalination
2755
and Hydrogen Power for Cape Verde’’ are currently supported for feasibility studies prior to realizing a pilot project. A similar earlier feasibility study resulted realizing a pilot project in India. ICHET takes a more proactive role with support for the realization of small-scale pilot projects in selected countries and provides finances up to $500,000 with at least 50% costshare. In India, ICHET is supporting a project involving the operation of approximately 15 rickshaws modified to use hydrogen fuel in internal combustion engines in and around the city of New Delhi (Fig. 1). When established, its location will ensure high visibility for the project and will demonstrate the suitability of clean hydrogen fuel in environmentally sensitive areas. In Morocco, ICHET is part of a team to investigate the interaction of wind energy technologies and hydrogen technologies and study the optimal operating modes in terms of directly using the electricity produced by the wind turbine, or converting it to hydrogen, storing it and then re-electrifying the hydrogen through fuel cells. In Turkey, ICHET has several local projects for various hydrogen and fuel cell technology demonstrations. ICHET is in negotiation to form a consortium to produce hydrogen for energy storage using Kobold turbines powered by sea currents. Subject project will be utilized at Bosphorus. Hydrogen Island project in Bozcaada Island targets to install 25 kW wind power coupled with 20 kW PV installation in an island in Turkey to power two government building (Fig. 2). Electricity produced will be utilized by a 25 kW electrolyzer for hydrogen production to be used in a small boat, and passenger-cart for island transportation as well as fuel for oven-top cooker. Fuel Cell Powered fork-lift project is a joint venture involving local companies, and aimed at realizing the utilization of 8 kW fuel cells in forklifts (Fig. 3). Objectives of the projects are to replace existing battery technology in forklifts, to increase productivity by reducing refueling times, to provide consistent and abundant power while releasing no harmful emissions, and more importantly involve local companies to get accustomed with such technologies. Trial runs and demonstrations of the applicability of the technology to industrial conditions are scheduled. ICHET is externally supporting a Fuel Cell Boat Demonstration project managed by the Istanbul Municipality. Istanbul Sea Transportation Authority (IDO) plans to operate a 50-passenger electric motor boat powered by a fuel cell to
Fig. 1 – An early tri-wheeler prototype with hydrogen-ICE (courtesy of Mahindra & Mahindra).
2756
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Fig. 2 – Schematic of power sources and distribution in Bozcaada Island implementation.
demonstrate the provision of clean, noiseless and continuous electric power while increasing public awareness of applications of environmental energy technologies. Another important objective of the project is to encourage and motivate local companies to take part and invest in hydrogen energy technologies. As part of this project, Turkey’s first filling station
with capabilities to fill-up both a boat and a bus will be installed at Golden Horn in Istanbul. ICHET is in the process of installing several fuel cell based un-interruptible power supply (FC-UPS) at various locations in Istanbul. This project will introduce 5–10 kW fuel cell based UPS systems to targeted application areas. The first 5 kW system is installed at Istanbul Sea Authority Headquarters to provide power to lights, cameras, servers and sound system for the passenger waiting area (Fig. 4). Fuel cell based (FCB) un-interruptible power supply (UPS) systems are considered as an early commercial opportunity for the market penetration of fuel cells. Tourist attractions, ticket office for ferries and telecommunication companies have been selected as potentially viable installation sites due to their high visibility. The overall objective of this activity is to introduce awareness of environmentally friendly energy technologies. A long-term objective of the project is to get sufficient material and component support for system integrators in developing countries to create local industries.
2.2.
Fig. 3 – Fuel cell powered forklift.
R&D activities
ICHET has been supporting applied R&D activities with 100% funding in a collaboration manner. In one project, hydrogen permeation in thermo-plastic pipe materials are explored to demonstrate reliable thermo plastic pipes that can carry hydrogen over long distances (Fig. 5). Cukurova University is supported in two R&D projects. One project objective is to produce hydrogen from biomass-derived aqueous solutions and from domestic or industrial organic rich waste water by developing processing systems in which certain microbes (bacteria) and electrochemical approaches are coupled for enhancing the performance regarding hydrogen production. For this purpose, two different approaches were chosen to be tested and then carry on with the more promising approach. In the first approach, the so-called dissimulator metal reducing bacteria (e.g. Shewanella oneidensis MR-1) would be used to reduce ferric ions to ferrous state in a separate
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
2757
Fig. 4 – 5 kW fuel cell UPS system at application site.
bioreactor and then circulate this aqueous solution in an electrolyzer in which while ferrous ions are being oxidized back to the ferric state in anodic compartment, hydrogen should evolve from the cathode part. The second approach is to adsorb exoelectrogenic bacteria on the carbon electrodes and then use these electrodes in either one compartment or two compartment electrolytic cells. The substrate will be either organic rich domestic or industrial waste water or lignocelluloses-derived aqueous solutions. In both approaches the applied external voltages will be much less than the one applied in conventional electrolysis of water. In the second project Cukurova University researchers are developing technologies for gasification of lignocellulosic biomass by using the novel method of Aqueous Phase Reforming (APR). The lignocellulosic biomass will first be converted into water-soluble products by catalytic thermal treatment in water under mild temperature and pressure conditions and then subjected to Aqueous Phase Reforming (APR) for converting the solubilized carbohydrates and others into hydrogen gas. As part of applied R&D activities, ICHET internally implementing projects with engineering students. A small tri-wheel scooter, suitable for handicapped people to use, was converted to fuel cell power utilizing hydrogen as fuel. Similarly, a four-passenger cart was integrated with a 2 kW fuel cell along with the necessary fuelling options and controls. Control hardware and software are developed to enable the hybrid battery-fuel cell vehicles to function smoothly. Vehicle performance analysis, sizing of the various system components and modeling will be carried out as part of a master program with a local university. Project will look for sponsors and contributors during the demonstration phase. A mobile caravan fueled by renewable energies has been designed by a team of multi-disciplinary graduate students. Based on system design and modeling, 15 m2 usable space with a bathroom, kitchen and living room is supported with 1 kW
(3 kW capable) wind turbine together with 800 W solar panels. Inside, 2 kW-fuel-cell provides power when needed. A hydrogen cooker is utilized in the kitchen receiving hydrogen from on board electrolyzer. With the above projects (Fig. 6), practical engineering experience of assembly, integration and system control of fuel cell-battery powered hybrid systems with PV, wind turbine and electrolyzer are gained. A long-term objective of the project is to push for use of fuel cell powered vehicles in public places and encourage local industry to manufacture similar vehicles and explore market potential for such use. As a benefit of this activity, public awareness on applications of renewable and fuel cell technologies will increase and viability of such systems will be demonstrated to change public perception.
Fig. 5 – Plastic piping with multi-layer aluminum coating.
2758
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
In addition to internal R&D projects, ICHET is issuing ‘‘Call for Proposals’’ for Turkish hydrogen and fuel cell community to take part. Very recent calls to promote hydrogen and fuel cell development in Turkey include ‘‘Photo-electrochemical hydrogen production’’, ‘‘3 kW fuel cell system developments’’ and ‘‘3 kW fuel cell CHP system developments’’. Formation of consortium comprising universities, research institutes, both private and public sectors is encouraged.
These projects will be on R&D basis having a strong prototypedevelopment component. The projects are expected to deliver benchmark studies with the relevant state-of-the-art technologies, compare the competing hydrogen production technologies from financial and technological points of views and construct prototype units to demonstrate and to yield data to be used in modeling/scaling-up and techno-economic analysis.
Fig. 6 – Mobility vehicles integrated at ICHET projects.
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Fig. 7 – One of the cover pages for monthly E-Newsletter.
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2760
2.3.
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
Collaboration and educational activities
The quality of R&D activities in developing countries is strongly affected by the available equipment and resources. The goal of this activity has been to improve ICHET research infrastructure by establishing new laboratories and acquiring additional equipment, with the aim of enabling cross-utilization of existing and established capabilities between ICHET and other countries. The laboratories are equipped with stateof-the art instruments selected for a wide range of projects. The laboratories are used to provide training and education of the researchers from the developing countries. Visiting scientists from developed countries were also to be accepted, provided they were involved in a joint R&D project with ICHET. ICHET has fully functional fuel cell testing and analytical laboratory with the following equipment: Two, 125 W fuel cell test stations; two, 1 kW fuel cell test stations; five electrolyzer; metal hydride cylinders with 10,000 l total storage capacity; potentiostat, galvanostat and AC impedance spectroscopy equipment; gas chromatograph; FTIR; gas adsorption analyzer; glove box; UV–Visible Spectrometer; HPLC; optical contact angle/surface tension meter analyzer; surface area and porosity analyzer and TGA/DSC thermal analyzer. ICHET is utilizing laboratory capabilities during short course trainings on various hydrogen energy technologies. A wide range of practical information and research subjects including, electrochemistry, hydrogen production and storage technologies, renewable (solar; PV; electrolysis) and fuel cell technologies and engineering, are covered in these courses. Technologies are emphasized with lectures being presented in the morning followed by afternoon sessions in the laboratory where the participants could assess some techniques for themselves. Laboratory hands-on work is encouraged and given priority considering limited laboratory infrastructure in developing countries. More than 45 international participants from 10 different countries have utilized our laboratories during a 5-day long summer school very recently. Under sponsorship and internship program, national and international students are given opportunity to participate in hydrogen and fuel cell related technology training and internships. Internship activities facilitate knowledge transfer, exchange of information at regional, national and international levels. Every summer ICHET accepts about 5–7 summer interns to work on various subjects for duration of 20–30 days. Master and Ph.D. students are supported parttime basis to work at ICHET helping staff on hydrogen fuel cell related activities while working towards their degrees. Since 2005, more than 60 students have been supported under this program. ICHET has been receiving visiting scientists for postdoctoral stays from other countries including India, Pakistan (2), Iraq, Germany, USA, Egypt and Turkey (2). Student competitions aimed at introducing hydrogen and fuel cells into educational curriculum. This activity involves direct communication with school management and teachers for training and curriculum development; distribution of hydrogen educational kits; and undertaking school projects. With the above objectives in mind, ICHET organized a competition in Istanbul involving 15 science high schools to assemble a fuel cell model car with on board hydrogen
storage. Each entry was assessed on speed and overall design. This was the first such an event in Turkey and further events are planned. A similar activity is organized to encourage universities and companies to take part in environmentally friendly energy and alternative power conversion technologies. In this case, ten proposals to construct boats powered by 4 kW fuel cells and hydrogen fuel will be sponsored. Activity will give students from different engineering background opportunity to work on practical engineering design and problems. A monthly e-publication is an integral part of ICHET activity targeting high schools in Turkey and developing countries. Purpose of the activity is to educate teachers and students; disseminate hydrogen information at high school level and to become a point of contact for projects and support. E-Newsletter is prepared both in Turkish (H2 Haber) and English (H2 News) (Fig. 7). Currently, it is distributed to more than 4000 email addresses in Turkey. The program is extended to cover other countries. Several hundred printed versions were sent to South Africa for their Science Fair. In 2007, ICHET formally launched its collaboration activities to strengthen its position in the hydrogen community. ICHET joined the Joint Technology Initiative (JTI) for Fuel Cells and Hydrogen which is a public–private partnership coordinating research, development and demonstration program to facilitate efforts towards a rapid deployment of fuel cells and hydrogen technologies with commitment from more than 45 organizations. ICHET also became a member of the European Research Grouping formed by European non-profit organizations under the umbrella of The European Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Technology Platform (HFP). UNIDO is signing International Energy Agency (IEA)-Hydrogen Implementing Agreement (HIA) to take part in global research activities. Discussions exploring possible joint collaboration between the EU Joint Research Centre (JRC), Institute for Energy (IE) and ICHET have resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding. In order to have better alignment with hydrogen and fuel cell initiatives around the world, ICHET is taking the lead to establish Turkish Hydrogen Association. The value of creating the Turkish Hydrogen Association is first to coordinate and accelerate the codes and standards, education, research and demonstration activities within Turkey. Organization, once established, will involve coordination and learning activities of PATH, the Partnership for Advancing the Transition to Hydrogen, the international coalition of hydrogen associations.
3.
Conclusions
The transition to a ‘‘Hydrogen Economy’’ has already begun and the world is already moving towards acceptance of hydrogen as a viable alternative carrier of energy. This transition may take several decades to complete. ICHET is actively looking for funding partners to be more influential on this transition and increase international dimensions of the center. While technological advancements are focus of research and development institutions, government incentives are necessary to bridge the time and cost gap to encourage public for use of renewable energy and hydrogen.
international journal of hydrogen energy 35 (2010) 2754–2761
ICHET is taking its position in the hydrogen world as to prepare developing countries to contribute to the hydrogen economy through the creation of skill sets and industrial awareness for social and economic benefits of hydrogen energy technologies. However, the most significant impact of these activities is to be educating the public about hydrogen energy and its future role. At the end, public will be well informed, involved and ready to take action towards climate and energy problems facing the world in the coming years. This would lead to enough momentum to influence policies, accelerate public interest in hydrogen technologies leading to a creation of a technology network for competitive
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advantage unlocking the energy potential of developing countries.
references
[1] Barbir F, Yazici S. Status and development of PEM fuel cell technology. International Journal of Energy Research 2007; 32(5):369–78. [2] Yazici MS. Hydrogen and fuel cell education – outreach activities at UNIDO-ICHET. In: 18th World hydrogen energy conference (WHEC08), Brisbane, Australia, June 15–19, 2008.