Fuel cell powered octocopter for inspection of mobile cranes: Design, cost analysis and environmental impacts

N. Belmonte, S. Staulo, S. Fiorot, C. Luetto, P. Rizzi and M. Baricco

Applied Energy, 2018, vol. 215, issue C, 556-565

Abstract: In this paper, the possible development of a drone for mobile crane inspection is investigated. Since the flying time of the drones currently in commerce is too short for the designed application, proton exchange membrane fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries are considered as alternative power systems to extend the flying time. Both systems are analyzed from an economical point of view and a life cycle assessment is performed to identify the main contributors to the environmental impact. From a commercial point of view, the lightweight fuel cell, being a niche product, results more expensive with respect to the Li-ion battery. On the other hand, the life cycle assessment results show a lower burdens of both technologies with respect to other components of the two systems, as carbon fiber. The source of the hydrogen and the electricity mix play a critical role as well.

Keywords: Fuel cell; Battery; Unmanned aerial vehicle; Life cycle assessment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2018
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (6)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:appene:v:215:y:2018:i:c:p:556-565

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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2018.02.072

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