Design and Analysis of a Valveless Impedance Pump for a Direct Sodium Borohydride–Hydrogen Peroxide Fuel Cell

Abstract

A valveless impedance pump is designed and applied for the first time to supply the liquid fuels for a direct sodium borohydride–hydrogen peroxide fuel cell (DBHPFC). This valveless pump consists of an amber latex rubber tube, which is connected at both ends to rigid stainless-steel tubes of different acoustic impedance, and a simple actuation mechanism with a small direct control (DC) motor and a cam combined. The cam is activated by the motor and periodically compresses the elastic tube at a position asymmetrical from the tube ends. The traveling waves emitted from the compression combine with the reflected waves at the impedance-mismatched rubber tube/stainless-steel tube interfaces. The resulting wave interference creates a pressure gradient and generates a net flow. When connected to a DBHPFC with an active area of 25 cm2, the pump can deliver the fuel at a maximum pumping rate of 30 ml/min, resulting in corresponding DBHPFC maximum power and a current of 13.0 W and 25.5 A, respectively. The specific power, volumetric power density, and back work ratio of the DBHPFC with this pumping method have been proven superior to those of the other pumping configuration with peristaltic pumps. This valveless impedance pump is mechanically simply and less susceptible to corrosion, and it can reduce the volume and weight of fuel cell systems to a measurable extent. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of the device for practical DBHPFC applications.