Development of a CO/O2 fuel cell system for power generation on Mars

A specific CO/O2 fuel cell represents a well matched solution for power generation in the Mars environment. A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) can be operated with oxygen as the oxidant and carbon monoxide as fuel. Carbon monoxide and oxygen can be produced on Mars through reduction of carbon dioxide, which is widely available on the planet, making up 95% of the Martian atmosphere.

The combination of the photocatalytic CO2 splitting reactor and the CO/O2 fuel cell working together can be used as a self-standing power generation system. The conversion of chemical energy into electrical power has already been successfully tested within a previous ESA technology activity showing very good results at high temperatures.

Currently available systems are further modified in this activity in order to meet the requirements for Martian applications and significantly reduce the operating temperature. Alternative techniques are investigated. The primary objectives are to build and perform tests of both high and low temperature fuel cell systems together with the existing CO2 photocatalytic system. In addition to this, the activity will allow the characterisation of efficiencies, densities etc.

In the framework of the exploration of Mars, both near/medium term robotic and longer term human, it is deemed critical to begin to develop innovative and reliable technologies which might be able to take advantage of in-situ resources. This activity is one of the first steps on this path to developing self-sustaining systems on the Mars surface, which might ultimately enable a self-sustaining human presence.