Method for Generating Hydrogen From Aluminium Waste, to Feed the Fuel Cell of a Radio-Control Car

Abstract

Most of radio controlled cars with Fuel Cell on the market store hydrogen in pressurized cylinders or metal hydrides. In this article, the possibility of generating hydrogen inside the vehicle, at a constant flow rate, from aluminum soda can rings, in alkaline solution medium and by isopropyl alcohol regulation, is proposed. The alcohol helps to eliminate the NaOH particles transported by the hydrogen and likewise to keeps the flow rate constant over time. A theoretical model has been developed to predict the hydrogen flow rate generated as a function of the molarity and temperature of the solution, as well as the purity and dimensions of the aluminum plates. Subsequently, the model has been validated experimentally from test plates and the flow rate and purity of the hydrogen obtained has been analyzed. Finally, a radio control car with Fuel Cell was designed, adding the filters and elements necessary for its correct operation. Main contribution of this study is the use of isopropyl alcohol for flow rate regulation and the control of the purity of hydrogen.

Analysis of Valorization Process of Aluminum Breakage Scraps to Obtain Green Hydrogen

“…To formulate the kinetic model, it is assumed initially, as a hypothesis, that there will be enough aluminum active surface area, which reacts with water so that the hydrogen flow rate depends exclusively on the added water flow rate [19]. This hypothesis will be used only as a starting point for the study since this area might be reduced by the partial inactivity of the area due to the appearance of aluminum hydroxide in the form of bayerite [22].…”