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Research
Light-Weight, Low-Cost PEM Fuel Cell Stacks: In this DOE funded project we are scaling up concepts developed under our microfuel cell efforts to a nominal 1 kW scale. An edge-collected design is being pursued using gas diffusion layers/current collectors that are fabricated by a printing process that results in a stack with far fewer parts, substantially easier assembly, and simplified operation. Radiolytic Fuel Cells: In conjunction with Oregon State University and Battelle, Pacific Northwest Division, we have been investigating nuclear-to-electric power generation utilizing a technique based on closed cycle fuel cell operation. The specific chemical system being used generates hydrogen and oxygen through radiolysis, and then utilizes an alkaline based fuel cell to generate electricity from the hydrogen and oxygen. This concept results in a closed cycle, radiation damage-resistant process where the chemical intermediary (water in this case) is continually regenerated. With the micro engineering and fabrication techniques available today, a miniaturized integrated package of 1 cm3 in size and producing power in the 10 mW-class output appears feasible. Implantable Power Systems for Networked Neuroprosthesis: Medical researchers in Cleveland have made tremendous advances in the use of electrical stimulation to restore muscle function to people with spinal cord injuries. The next generation of these stimulators will require electrical power sources (batteries, bio fuel cells) that can be implanted in the human body. In collaboration with the Cleveland Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Center we are evaluating commercial implant grade Li-ion batteries, and developing an alternative battery concept specifically designed for implantation.
Selected Publications"Oxidation of Ammonium on Platinum in Acidic Solutions" R. Halseid, J. Wainright, R. Savinell, and R. Tunold, J. Electrochem. Soc., 154, B263, 2007 “A Microfabricated Nickel-Hydrogen Battery Using Thick Film Printing Techniques” W. G. Tam, and J. S. Wainright, Journal of Power Sources 165, 481–488, 2007 "Microscale Power Generation using a Mesoscale Fuel Cell integrated with a Microscale Fuel Processor" J.D. Holladay, J. S. Wainright, E. O. Jones and S. R. Gano J. Power Sources, 130, 111, 2004 "Positioning The Reference Electrode In Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: Calculations Of Primary And Secondary Current Distribution" Zhenyu Liu, J. S. Wainright, R. F. Savinell, and Weiwei Huang Electrochimica Acta, 49, 923, 2004 |
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The research in my group revolves around electrochemistry and electrochemical engineering, in particular as applied to polymer electrolyte fuel cells, supercapacitors, and batteries. All aspects of these devices are considered; from high-level system models to development of new electrolytes and catalysts to fundamental studies of proton conduction and oxygen reduction. Many of our recent research efforts have focused on the production of small fuel cells and batteries using microfabrication techniques. Four of the current programs are detailed below.