Boeing Prepares Fuel Cell Demonstrator Airplane for Testing

[jpak]

http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/story?id=48018

In an effort to develop environmentally progressive technologies for aerospace applications, Boeing researchers are preparing to conduct experimental flight tests later this year of a manned airplane powered only by a fuel cell and lightweight batteries.

The systems integration phase of the Fuel Cell Demonstrator Airplane research project, under way since 2003 at Boeing Research and Technology, Europe (BR&TE), was recently completed. With a wing span of 16.3 meters (53.5 feet), the airplane will be able to cruise at approximately 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour).

"Given the efficiency and environmental benefits of emerging fuel cell technology, Boeing wants to be on the forefront of developing and applying it to aerospace products," said Francisco Escarti, BR&TE managing director. "The Fuel Cell Demonstrator Airplane project is an important step in that direction."

The Boeing demonstrator uses a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell/lithium-ion battery hybrid system to power an electric motor, which is coupled to a conventional propeller. The fuel cell provides all power for the cruise phase of flight. During takeoff and climb, the flight segment that requires the most power, the system draws on lightweight lithium-ion batteries.

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[LiberalEsto]

1. More fuel cell info

A PEM fuel cell uses a simple chemical reaction to combine hydrogen and oxygen into water, producing electric current in the process. No pollution is produced, and the only byproducts are water and heat.

More at http://www.humboldt.edu/~serc/fc.html

[JohnWxy]

2. very interesting!

[Massacure]

3. It is pretty cold at 40,000 feet, I assume it must be easier to keep hydrogen liquefied there.

I guess hydrogen has one thing going for it at least.