Chapter 81. Technology Forecasting Utilizing National Study - Committee Findings for Electrochemical Materials Technologies Such as Fuel Cells and Power Electronics

Summary

Balanced national study - committees represent a powerful approach to state-of-the-art assessments of pacing materials problems, especially fuel cells. Previous electrochemical studies have been performed by an ad hoc committee on Electrochemical Aspects of Energy Conservation and Production of the National Materials Advisory Board (NMAB) of the National Research Council (NRC) at the National Academies. One principal study (New Horizons in Electrochemical Sciences and Technology, NMAB 438–1, National Academy Press, Washington, DC 1986, 147pp.) reviewed the then current knowledge of electrochemical science and technology and made recommendations for future research. It also identified new technological opportunities in widely diverse applications, including batteries and fuel cells, among many others. Further, opportunities for cross-cutting research in several key areas of the needed technology base were delineated.

Even earlier NRC studies were devoted specifically to batteries (NMAB 390, Assessment of Research Needs for Advanced Battery Systems) and fuel cells (NMAB 416, Fuel Cells Materials Technology in Vehicular Propulsion).

Building on these previous studies, it is suggested that a contemporary materials study be conducted to assess the current state-of-the-art of electrochemical science and technology, especially as it relates to fuel cells and power electronics, as well as advanced hybrid electric vehicles. Such a study would greatly facilitate technology forecasts for producers and users.