Co-hosted by the Department of Manufacturing Engineering, and the School of Management , Boston University.

Emerging Technology and Best Practices Seminar Series

Speaker: James C. Cross III

Title: PEM Fuel Cells:  Technology Status & Commercialization Prospects 

Abstract: Hydrogen based energy technologies offer tremendous promise for addressing global concerns of energy security and environmental quality.  In particular, PEM fuel cells for automotive applications have the prospect of tripling fuel economy and nullifying both carbon and pollutant emissions.  However, realization of these benefits requires significant investment and long timeframes.  So, where are PEM fuel cells after two decades of development, and what is the outlook for commercialization?   In this talk we will discuss what PEM fuel cells are and how they work;  why they are interesting compared to incumbent technologies such as batteries and engines; their status and prospects with respect to performance, lifetime, and cost;  and near-term commercial initiatives that will build the bridge to transportation applications and the corresponding societal benefits.

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