ISRO successfully tests a 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell based Power System

ISRO in its recent updates shared about the successful test of a 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell based Power System (FCPS). ISRO took to the social media platform X and updated about the same.

POEM-3 on PSLV-C58:
VSSC/ISRO successfully tests a 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell on PSLV-C58's orbital platform, POEM3.https://t.co/f5SGqh1ZUR
Powering missions with efficiency and emitting only water, these fuel cells are the future for power production in… pic.twitter.com/lCbsZF9UIB

— ISRO (@isro) January 5, 2024

The test was done on the orbital platform, POEM-3 that was launched onboard the PSLV-C58. The PSLV-C58 was launched on 1 January 2024.

2024 lifted off majestically. 📸

XPoSat health is normal.
Power generation has commenced. pic.twitter.com/v9ut0hh2ib

— ISRO (@isro) January 1, 2024

The discussed test was conducted with the motive of assessing Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel cell operation in space. The test also aimed at collecting data that can help design the systems for future missions.

The test in POEM saw the generation of about 180 W of power from Hydrogen and Oxygen gases that were stored onboard in high-pressure vessels.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells are electric generators that function on electrochemical principles. They produce electricity directly from Hydrogen and Oxygen gases. During the process, they also emit pure water and heat. This capability of producing electricity from Hydrogen and Oxygen qualifies them as efficient choices. They are emission-free choices as water is the only byproduct.

All of these features make them stand out as ideal options for space missions with humans that require electric power, water, and heat. In the case of Hydrogen Fuel Cells, they can cater to multiple requirements in a mission.

It is to be noted that Fuel Cells also hold promising potential to be used in societal applications like replacing the engines of certain vehicles.

Check out more about these Fuel Cells here.