Components and Architecture optimisation for marine fuel cell systems

The energy transition to zero emission maritime transport implies a central role for hydrogen as an energy carrier of choice for multiple applications and use cases. Among the power conversion technologies fuel cell systems can combine unrivalled performance and zero tailpipe emission. Nonetheless the state-of-the-art architectures of fuel cell modules are largely driven by requirements related to the on-road applications, while the maritime applications with their specific performance indicators are expected to be suitable for alternative designs. In this context, the thesis is focusing on the architecture of the fuel cell module, the fundamental functions carried out by the subsystems within it and the design choices to be made in a defining an architecture suitable for installation in conjunction with a marine propulsion system. Moreover, the defined design is modelled and analysed to evaluate its performance and the ability of all subsystems to perform the assigned functions, at steady state and in transient conditions.