In 1986, a study was initiated by ESTEC and carried out by Dornier to investigate the feasibility of RFCS for space use. The state-of-the-art of European, as well as American, fuel cells and electrolyzers was considered, and basic data were collected through the end of 1987. In 1988, the second study phase began. It examined the advantages and disadvantages of the different technologies. This study will be completed in May 1989. It will identify the most promising technologies available in the ESA member states for future study. The third study phase will be based on this selection and will follow in July 1989. It will continue until the end of 1991. The third phase will improve system optimization through hardware studies. A comparison with other energy storage systems will be performed to show the ability of the RFCS to compete with these systems. In addition, the possibility of combining the RFCS with the life-support and propulsion systems will be examined. System Description Principles of Operation The basic operation of those technologies considered here are shown in Fig. 2. Here, alkaline (mobile and immobile KOH), as well as acid (PEM), fuel cells and electrolyzers are described. The process requirements resulting from these principles follow.
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