Fuel cells and novel thermal management advancements required for aviation

Abstract

The paper considers the usage of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, gaseous H2 and cryogenic H2 fuels to solve the known thermal problems associated with electrical generation. Recent experimental H2 flight failures are reviewed, and a novel solution to control the electrolyte temperature operating range is proposed, utilising LH2, new additive manufactured evaporators/ heat exchangers and control software. The need for an IRON BIRD full scale test rig is justified prior to any further ambitious flight attempts.