Development of the Hydrogen Storage System for the Deep and Long Range Underwater Vehicle Powered by Fuel Cell

Abstract

Development of power sources is one of the most important key technologies for battery-driven underwater vehicles. Usually, many underwater vehicles use rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion batteries or silver-zinc batteries for their power source. However, in the case of a Long range Cruising type Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (LCAUV), it needs great electric power storage and supply in proportion to the cruising distance. So fuel cells are planned as power the source for this underwater vehicle. A Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell and Metal Hydride system is most suitable for underwater vehicles because the PEFC & MH system generates electricity at total efficiency and at low temperature. In 2005, the AUV "URASHIMA" achieved a cruise distance of 317km. Now, the next generation LCAUV which will be able to cruise over 3,000km, is under development using advanced technologies. The technology involved in the hydrogen storage system is one of the important technologies.