Fuel cell recovery project

The proposed project aims at generating new knowledge in establishing how Hydrogen Fuel cell systems (HFC) in Fuel Cell Electric vehicles (FCEVs) can be recovered once they reach the end of their life (i.e. are worn out/have failed) so that their optimal value can be recuperated and their life in service can be kept in circulation to ensure sustainability. As part of the automotive industry's on going efforts to lower CO2 emissions by 80% before 2050, many vehicle manufacturers, such as Hyundai, Toyota, and Honda have started to turn their attentions towards the development of zero carbon emitting FCEVs. It is anticipated that by 2030 there will be in excess of 1.3milion FCEVs on UK roads, and by 2050, will account for up to 30% of the total vehicles on UK roads. When these vehicles reach the end of their life, the automotive industry and producers of the fuel cells will become accountable for the responsible collection, recovery and disposal of them under the ELV directive. At present, little research has sought to establish how to do this. This project is focused on the development of new product, process and business designs to enable fuel cell recovery.