Device and Method for Generating Electrical Current

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This invention describes a system and method for generating electric power using a device that transfers hydrogen from a liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) to a hydrogen transfer medium (such as alcohols or ketones). The hydrogen-rich transfer medium is then converted directly into electricity via a fuel cell, typically without the need to release molecular hydrogen gas. The system is designed to provide higher energy density, increased efficiency, and improved safety, particularly suited for mobile applications like vehicles.

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• Powering electric vehicles (cars, buses, trains, boats, aircraft) by onboard generation of electricity via fuel cells using LOHCs and hydrogen transfer media.
• Supplying electricity to off-grid, portable, or mobile power units such as construction vehicles, mining equipment, or field hospitals.
• Backup or autonomous power generation stations, e.g., in remote areas or for emergency power supply.
• Charging batteries in electric vehicles or stationary energy storage systems more efficiently and safely than by direct hydrogen fueling.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Higher overall energy efficiency due to direct hydrogen transfer and electricity generation with minimal thermal losses.
• Enhanced safety since molecular hydrogen gas is avoided or minimized, reducing risks related to storage and handling of hydrogen gas.
• Use of liquid carriers (compatible with existing fuel infrastructure) allows easy transport, storage, and refueling processes similar to conventional liquid fuels.
• Lower CO2 emissions compared to combustion or conventional direct-methanol fuel cells, with potential for near-zero emissions if renewable sources are used for hydrogen.
• Reduced need for external heat input, as the system can operate thermally neutral, minimizing energy waste required for dehydrogenation.
• Flexibility for both stationary and mobile applications, allowing adaptation to various scales and settings.

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Patent Abstract

A device for producing electricity comprises a hydrogen transfer unit (6) for transferring hydrogen from a hydrogen storage medium to a hydrogen transfer medium as well as an electricity generation unit (3) for producing electricity from the hydrogen transfer medium.