Development of an Electrochemical Cryocooler

By combining fuel cell technology with standard refrigeration system technology, a cryogenic refrigerator with no moving parts can be produced. The cryocooler uses an electrochemical hydrogen compressor to drive a Joule-Thomson refrigeration cycle. Boeing Aerospace has been developing such a system since 1984. Two electrochemical compressors have been designed, fabricated, and tested. Single stage compression over 2000 lb/in² has been demonstrated.