Review of Latest Developments in PEM Fuel Cell Research with Application to Hydrogen Powered Drones

Abstract

Fuel cells are becoming an increasingly more enticing option to power drones for extended use applications. This is because under certain conditions, fuel cell systems are able to more efficiently store fuel and, therefore, energy compared to standard battery options. This reality has been proven through multiple research efforts and is reviewed in this paper. It is necessary to review the current state of PEM fuel cell technology for drone applications to determine the extent of its limitations and feasibility. For this reason, the latest developments in low temperature and high temperature PEM fuel cells were studied including their limitations and sensitivity to contamination with a focus on drone applications. It has been reported that hydrogen powered fuel cell systems are more efficient than conventional battery applications when the energy content is higher than 4 MJ. A hybrid fuel cell and battery powertrain is preferred for the purpose of counterbalancing the deficiencies of both individual cases. Currently available products were explored, and it was found that there are fuel cell systems available that are capable of powering drones in excess of 23 kg (50 lb).