Problems with generation, distribution, and storage will limit the use of pure hydrogen for automotive applications for sometime to come. The use of hydrogen enrichment of conventional or alternative fuels can, however, provide near-term combustion improvements with conventional internal combustion engines. The improvements when using partial hydrogen fuelling can be broadly grouped as: emissions, and cold start performance. Also, unlike fuel cells, engines are insensitive to carbon poisoning, thus pure hydrogen does not need to be provided. This presents an excellent opportunity to use hydrogen reformation, utilizing conventional fuels as the source fuel. This can be accomplished on-board; thus eliminating the need for hydrogen storage. The POX reformers appear to provide the best opportunity for use in automotive applications, particularly to provide cold start benefits.
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