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Exploring Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems and Balance of Plant (BOP)

Power a net zero future with expert insights and applications to hydrogen fuel cell systems and sustainable energy solutions.

A 3d modelled semi-transparent bus shape on a grey background with grid and coloured rectangles in background

Promote sustainable energy solutions with hydrogen fuel cell technology

From hydrogen cars to renewable energy infrastructure, there has been a huge shift in consumer demand for sustainable technologies.

On this two-week course from Deakin University, you’ll explore applications of hydrogen engineering, including a deep dive into cutting-edge advancements in hydrogen fuel cell systems.

Explore hydrogen energy systems, including PEM fuel cells

You’ll begin this course with an overview of hydrogen fuel cells, delving into their basic principles, electrochemical processes, and applications.

Building on this foundation, you’ll explore the inner workings of proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell systems and their subsystems, understanding their design, operation, and components to drive advancements in clean energy and sustainable engineering.

Grasp balance of plant (BOP) to support clean energy infrastructures

BOP refers to the supporting components and systems necessary to operate the fuel cell stack, such as hydrogen storage, cooling systems, and power electronics.

With the support of interactive models helping you visualise a digital representation of a fuel cell at different levels, you’ll learn to design, select, and optimise these components to ensure efficient and reliable fuel cell operations.

Understand the latest in green technology with Deakin University experts

Throughout this course, you’ll be supported by Deakin University’s team of experts from their world-class hydrogen research centre, Hycel, and collaborate with a community of like-minded learners driving sustainable change.

In unpacking real-world case studies and gaining practical applications, you’ll emerge from this course with in-demand skills to excel in the expanding hydrogen sector and contribute to a more sustainable future.

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Skip to 0 minutes and 6 seconds MICHAEL PERIERA: Imagine a world where trucks and buses glide almost silently down our roads and highways, emitting nothing but water vapour, contributing to cleaner cities and a healthier planet. This isn’t science fiction. It’s the promise of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Skip to 0 minutes and 28 seconds Welcome to our exciting new course on exploring hydrogen PEM fuel cell systems and balance of plant. My name is Michael Pereira, and I’m an associate professor in mechanical engineering at Deakin University and the deputy director of Hycel. I’ve been working in the area of hydrogen fuel cell research for several years, and I’m passionate about developing technology to help us rapidly decarbonize our economy. While there may not be consensus right now on the exact solutions and technology mix that will power the world’s hard-to-abate sectors like heavy transport and freight, aviation and marine, and remote and backup power, we know that change is coming quickly.

Skip to 1 minute and 8 seconds In this cutting-edge course, we will explore the technology that is widely recognised as a front runner to revolutionise these critical industries. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells, known as PEM fuel cells, are particularly relevant to heavy vehicles, light aviation, and backup power. You will learn how to select and assemble the components of PEM fuel cells and balance the plant systems understanding their unique properties and market potential. We’ll look deep into the function and relationship of each component within the PEM fuel cell system to gain a detailed understanding of how these advanced systems work together to power the vehicles of tomorrow.

Skip to 1 minute and 47 seconds Through case studies and success stories, you’ll see firsthand how PEM fuel cell technology is making a significant impact in the real world. This course is designed to be interactive and engaging, blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights. Using our expertly designed models and digital tools, you’ll gain virtual hands on experience inside the fuel cell system. So whether you’re an engineer or technical professional, a business leader or manager, or simply passionate about sustainable energy, join us on this exciting learning journey into this rapidly evolving field of our future.

Syllabus

  • Week 1

    Hydrogen fuel cells

    • Let’s get started

      Meet the other learners and discover key information about this course, including useful tips to help you get the most out of your learning.

  • Week 2

    PEM fuel cell systems 

    • Introduction to PEM fuel cell systems

      Learn about the PEM fuel cell system and how the various subsystems work together to convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity to power a vehicle.

  • Week 3

    Industry focus

    • Industry and market focus

      Explore some of the latest developments in the hydrogen and fuel cell industries both globally and within Australia.

    • Course wrap and assessment

      Reflect on what you’ve learnt throughout the course to consolidate your knowledge and undertake the test to earn your certificate

When would you like to start?

Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

  • Identify the components of the PEM fuel cell system and how they interact.
  • Recall applications of hydrogen fuel cells, and market potential.
  • Summarise advantages and disadvantages of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Who is the course for?

This intermediate-level course is designed for individuals interested in expanding their technical expertise in hydrogen fuel cell systems and the balancing of plant components.

It’s ideal for engineers, project managers, and team members from diverse sectors, focusing on net zero or lower-emissions operations.

Who will you learn with?

- B.Eng (Aerospace), PhD
- Associate Professor Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering, Deakin University;
- Burwood (Melbourne) Campus Lead, School of Engineering;
- Deputy Director, Hycel

I am a German automotive engineer with a specialization in hydrogen mobility, and I have broadened my expertise to encompass the entire hydrogen and fuel cell technology industry over the last 7 years

Based at Deakin University's Hycel Technology Hub in Warrnambool, Australia, Loren leads Hycel's education and training program to develop hydrogen and energy courses alongside industry partners.

Who developed the course?

Deakin University

Deakin University is one of Australia’s largest universities with more than 61,000 students and over 15,000 online.

  • Established

    1974
  • Location

    Melbourne, Australia
  • World ranking

    Top 280Source: QS World University Rankings 2021

Hycel

Hycel is a regional hub of hydrogen expertise in south west Victoria, Australia, focused on hydrogen mobility applications, education and social licence.

What's included?

This is a premium course. These courses are designed for professionals from specific industries looking to learn with a smaller group of like-minded individuals.

  • Unlimited access to this course
  • Includes any articles, videos, peer reviews and quizzes
  • Tests to validate your learning
  • Certificate of Achievement to prove your success when you're eligible
  • Download and print your Certificate of Achievement anytime

Still want to know more? Check out our FAQs

Learning on FutureLearn

Your learning, your rules

  • Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
  • Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
  • Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

Join a global classroom

  • Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
  • Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
  • Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others

Map your progress

  • As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
  • Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
  • Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate

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