Fuel Cells Based on Natural Polysaccharides for Rail Vehicle Application

Paweł Daszkiewicz, Beata Kurc, Marita Pigłowska and Maciej Andrzejewski
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Paweł Daszkiewicz: Łukasiewicz Research Network–Rail Vehicles Institute “TABOR”, ul. Warszawska 181, 61-055 Poznań, Poland
Beata Kurc: Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, ul. Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
Marita Pigłowska: Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, ul. Berdychowo 4, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
Maciej Andrzejewski: Łukasiewicz Research Network–Rail Vehicles Institute “TABOR”, ul. Warszawska 181, 61-055 Poznań, Poland

Energies, 2021, vol. 14, issue 4, 1-23

Abstract: This manuscript shows the use of natural polysaccharides such as starch and cellulose as a carbon source for fuel cells. To achieve this, two innovative methods of obtaining hydrogen have been shown: by adsorption and by enzyme. The carbonization path of the material results in excellent sorption properties and allows gas with high efficiency to be obtained. The enzymatic method for the degradation of the compound is more expensive because specific enzymes (such as laccase, tyrosinase) must be used, but it allows greater control of the properties of the obtained material. A scientific novelty is the use of natural raw materials, the use of which increases the biodegradability of the electrochemical system and also reduces the cost of raw materials and increases the range of their acquisition. Energy should be generated where it is used. Another goal is decentralization, and thanks to the proposed solutions, hydrogen cells represent an innovative alternative to today’s energy giants—also for independent power supply to households. The proposed harvesting paths are intended to drive rail vehicles in order to reduce emissions and secondary pollution of the environment. The goals of both methods were easy recycling, high efficiency, increased environmental friendliness, low cost and a short hydrogen production path.

Keywords: fuel cells; exhaust emission; hydrogen; hybrid vehicles (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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