TENMAK Support for GTU Academic

The project titled "Design of PEM Fuel Cell Module with at Least 10 kW Power Output," led by Prof. Dr. Osman Öztürk, a faculty member of the Department of Physics at Gebze Technical University (GTÜ), has been awarded support within the framework of the Technology and Product Development Projects (TUGEP) under the Turkish Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency (TENMAK), which is part of the "TENMAK R&D Incentives Hydrogen Technologies and Fuel Cells" call.

The proposed project involves extensive interdisciplinary R&D and university-industry collaboration in the field of hydrogen fuel cell technology, specifically polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). Fuel cell studies, traditionally carried out independently at GTU for many years, will be consolidated under this project. As a result of this collaboration, the production cost of the developed module is expected to be reduced by 40% compared to market competitors. Simultaneously, the project aims for 100% nationalization in module production through R&D activities. In the context of nationalization goals, the development of electrocatalysts will be achieved through two different comparative methods. The proton-exchange membrane, a component giving the system its name and holding a monopoly in production worldwide, will also be produced at GTU as part of the project. Within the project, the design of flow channels, homogenous gas distribution, minimum pressure drop, water-temperature management, and bipolar plate material studies will ensure high electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. Faculty members from the Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Aerospace Engineering departments of the university will participate in the project. Under the project, undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students will be employed with scholarships, and existing laboratory infrastructures will be strengthened while leading the establishment of new laboratories. The module produced as a result of the project will be commercialized by TÜMOSAN Inc. It will offer a silent, vibration-free, and clean alternative to noisy and fossil fuel-powered generators. Additionally, modular integration will allow achieving different power levels. Furthermore, the project product can be used as a backup power unit in battery-powered vehicles. In emergencies, these silent power units can play a role in lighting and warning activities. The ongoing efforts will contribute significantly to meeting the electricity needs in automotive, energy, and off-grid areas.