Protonex To Optimize And Test Portable Fuel Cell Power Systems For US Army

Protonex Technology Corp. announced that Raytheon will participate in the development of Protonex’ portable fuel cell power system for the US Army. This work will be completed under a subcontract of Protonex’ previously awarded $3.5 million contract with the US Army Research Office (ARO) to develop a 250W portable fuel cell power source that is significantly smaller, lighter, quieter and more efficient than alternative battery or generator systems.

This is the first time that Protonex has partnered with Raytheon, a $20 billion US defense contractor and technology leader in defense and homeland security markets. Under the terms of the subcontract, Raytheon will test the Protonex power system and assist in optimizing its functionality to help it meet rigorous military standards for performance and safety. The testing performed by Raytheon will include evaluation of the system’s performance under shock, vibration and impact environments.

Protonex’ military power system will be fueled by methanol and produce up to 250W of continuous dc power as long as fuel is supplied. This integrated, mission-specific and ruggedized fuel cell power source, which includes customizable power management equipment, will be designed for use by the US Army, Special Operations Command and Marines for charging military batteries, or as a stand- alone power source to provide electricity for military equipment in remote locations. During the course of the one-year program, Protonex will deliver ten portable fuel cell power systems to the ARO for evaluation.

"Working with Raytheon on this program will speed and strengthen refinement of our 250-watt fuel cell product, and we expect to leverage this technology into advanced power systems for industrial and commercial markets as well," stated Scott Pearson, CEO, Protonex. "We look forward to working with Raytheon on this program, and hope that this teaming agreement will lead to future cooperation on both product development and sales opportunities."