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Review of the University of Florida Fuel Cell Bus Research, Demonstration and Education Program

UCD-ITS-RP-02-33

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Suggested Citation:
Betts, Daniel A., Timothy C. Simmons, Paul A. Erickson, Vernon P. Roan, Jr. (2002) Review of the University of Florida Fuel Cell Bus Research, Demonstration and Education Program. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Presentation Series UCD-ITS-RP-02-33

8th International Symposium on Renewable Energy Education

In the past decade fuel cell technology has had significant advances that have propelled it as one of the most important renewable energy technologies. In 1998 the University of Florida received the first of three methanol fueled, phosphoric acid fuel cell buses built under the direction of Georgetown University. Since then, the fuel cell bus has been repaired, refurbished, maintained and demonstrated by students of the University of Florida mechanical engineering department under the supervision of Dr. Vernon Roan. The bus was also used as an integral part of the research endeavors of the UF Fuel Cell Research and Training Laboratory. Some of the results from this research have been published and presented in various professional conferences and technical journals. The bus was also used as a teaching tool for the students of the University of Florida and the Gainesville community. For this purpose the bus has been featured in a number of local demonstrations where individuals have had the opportunity to learn and discuss about issues related to energy conservation and renewable energy technologies. This paper outlines the activities and results of the UF fuel cell bus demonstration and education program.