Dynalene R&D Engineer Carter Prokesch presented his research on low electrical conductivity coolants at the 2023 Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Seminar.  The event was held on February 7-9 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, California.

To summarize, thermal degradation of low electrical conductivity glycol-based coolants used in the fuel cell stacks can generate acidic components, which may be detrimental to the materials in your system. These breakdown products can corrode the metals of construction. To counter such corrosive effects, inhibitors are incorporated into the fluid to passivate metal surfaces and prevent organic acid formation. Additionally, metal surfaces that have been exposed to acidic coolant may act as a catalyst for further fluid degradation. 

Data on this potentially synergistic effect is scarce, and its suppression in inhibited low electrical conductivity coolant has not been studied. Here we examine how some common metals affect glycol degradation by measuring and comparing the concentration of the acidic products in inhibited and uninhibited fluids.

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About the seminar:  
Since 1976, the Fuel Cell Seminar has been a staple for fuel cell industry professionals, researchers, and stakeholders to meet with colleagues and customers alike and see the latest developments of this exciting industry.