LightCell

Purpose and goal

The project has refined a technical concept for more cost-efficient fuel cells. The concept is patented by the Scottish company Enocell and involves a photocatalytic chemical process that takes place on one electrode. In the project, RISE Acreo has developed a lighting unit that can be integrated into the fuel cell to drive the photocatalytic process. Light-scattering optical fibers have been developed for the application, as well as ultra-thin optical fibers.

Expected results and effects

In the long term, the technology that has been the focus of the project will enable more robust and cost-efficient fuel cells. It is too early to determine how effective the concept is, but the project has taken the technology significantly closer to verification and implementation. For RISE Acreo, the project has also led to new technology regarding light-scattering fibers and ultra-thin fibers, fiber types that are relevant in areas such as sensors and medical devices.

Planned approach and implementation

RISE Acreo has led a work package for developing and verify specifications of the fiber optic module, regarding e.g. chemical resistance and optical properties, as well as the design and development of the optical fiber and the lighting module which will be integrated into the fuel cell. The project has also worked on further development of chemistry, measurement methods, assembly and construction methods for fuel cells with integrated photocatalytic functions.