This class will cover the introduction to hydrogen-based energy conversion systems; mostly fuel cells. The class will explore society's present needs and future energy demands, examine conventional energy sources and systems, and then focus on alternate energy devices and renewable energy sources, especially on fuel cells and hydrogen resources. This course aims at introducing students to the fundamental aspects of fuel cell components/systems and main characterization methods. Students will learn the basic principles of electrochemical energy conversion systems while being exposed to relevant topics in mechanical engineering and materials science. 

No prerequisite is needed. Introductory knowledge in mechanical engineering (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, etc.) and materials science (structure and properties of materials, etc.) will be helpful, but not mandatory.

- Exam: 50%
- Presentation: 50%

1) F. Rief, Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics, Mc Graw Hill, Singapore. 1985
2) Y. M. Chiang, Physical Ceramics, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, 1997
3) A. J. Bard, Electrochemical Methods: Fundamentals and Applications, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, 2001

Week 1 : Introduction to fuel cell and hydrogen technology
Week 2 : Types of fuel cells
Week 3 : Fuel cell thermodynamics 1 - Basics
Week 4 : Fuel cell thermodynamics 2 - Advanced
Week 5 : Fuel cell thermodynamics 3 - Applications
Week 6 : Fuel cell kinetics 1 - Basics
Week 7 : Fuel cell kinetics 2 - Advanced
Week 8 : Fuel cell kinetics 3 - Applications
Week 9 : Fuel cell charge transport 1 - Basics
Week 10 : Fuel cell charge transport 2 - Advanced
Week 11 : Fuel cell charge transport 3 - Applications
Week 12 : Fuel cell mass transport 1 – Gas diffusion layer
Week 13 : Fuel cell mass transport 2 – Flow channels
Week 14 : Fuel cell characterizations 1 – In-situ methods
Week 15 : Fuel cell characterizations 2 – Ex-situ methods