Workshop: Advanced Fuel Cells

Fuel cells are a rapidly developing energy conversion technology. Offering higher efficiencies than conventional technologies, they also operate quietly and have a modular construction that is easily scaleable. These features mean that fuel cells are attractive for a range of potential applications, including combined heat and power (CHP), distributed power generation and transport.

The aim of the IEA Advanced Fuel Cells programme is to enhance the state of understanding of all contracting parties in the field of advanced fuel cells, through a co-ordinated programme of research, technology development and system analysis on Molten Carbonate (MCFC), Solid Oxide (SOFC) and Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC) systems. There is a strong emphasis on information exchange.

Austria officially participates in the Implementing Agreement on Advanced Fuel Cells since autumn 2004. The specific Austrian aims of this participation are as follows:

• Integration of Austrian cutting-edge RTD activities in international RTD emphasis
• Transfer of international know-how to (and in) Austria
• Promotion and mobilisation of Austrian applied and basic RTD (by gaining IEA know-how)
• Strengthening the competitiveness and internationalisation of the Austrian economy by increased RTD contributions, in general.

Carmen Gehrer, Graz University of Technology
Institute of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Technology
Fuel Cell Laboratory
Steyrergasse 21, A-8010 Graz (Austria)
Phone: +43 (316) 873 8781
Fax: +43 (316) 873 8782
E-Mail: carmen.gehrer@tugraz.at
Web: http://www.tvtut.tugraz.at