The use of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) in refrigerated transport for the frozen food supply chain

Abstract

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) hybrid vehicle systems have been developed with success with low maintenance due to few moving parts. In addition the solid state electrolyte enables dense packing to provide high power densities. This thesis reviews the current literature and the use of fuel cells in refrigerated transport. In addition, this thesis explores the use of sorption refrigeration by using the waste heat produced by the fuel cell. To produce subzero temperatures, high temperatures at the generator are required. Since the operation temperature of PEMFCs is low, the use of such systems is limited. However this thesis explores the possibility of using sorption systems in a dual stage sorption-vapour compression refrigeration system. The vehicle system has also been modeled which shows that a hybridized vehicle has the potential to save 30% energy during the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC). This model also shows that hybridization of 0.1 in Heavy Goods Vehicles can result in an increase in energy consumption compared with pure fuel cell vehicles. The costs have also been modeled in this thesis which further highlights the benefits of using fuel cells in a hybridized layout