The CanDan HUX

The CanDan HUX project has produced a cheap, compact, stable and energy-neutral humidifier, which has greatly improved IRD’s µCHP systems in terms of competitive factors such as cost, size and performance. Thus it has provided a valuable push to the fuel-cell technology, which has thereby become an even more attractive alternative to conventional energy solutions, as there are now even larger incentives to choose a fuel-cell solution, which is beneficial for the environment and in line with the desire to be energy independent.
The work comprised the development of a new improved membrane (IRD), design and pre-qualification of an optimised tailor-made humidifier (dPoint), and verification through system tests (IRD). An innovative approach let to the synthesis of well-performing humidifier membrane that could be produced relatively cheaply and that proved to be an interesting alternative to standard membranes. For the humidifier a planar pleat-pack design was developed, which provides great humidification efficiency and allows for low-cost production. The humidifier design as well as the performance and durability of the membrane was positively evaluated in comprehensive testing in fuel-cell systems at real end users. There is a great commercial potential.