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Acknowledgements

Over the course of my post-graduate studies I have received much positive support from a number people. I have leamed a great deal in the past two years and have gained both technical and personal experience that will be invaluable to me throughout my futurę endeavors. My thesis work would not have been possible without the assistance and support of the following people.

First, I would like to express my deep gratitude to my parents, Bob and Linda Howard, who continue to provide me with support and encouragement. My sister Sarah, who is often one step ahead of me in academic and professional life, deserves recognition for steadily sharing her many experiences and sound advice. Lori, who provided me with constant encouragement, deserves recognition for her contribution to my happiness in all areas of my life.

My supervisor Dr. Oosthuizen provided continued patience, valuable guidance and was very accommodating to my particular leaming style. I would also like to thank my co-supervisor, Dr. Peppley for acting as a liaison with our industry partners and for his assistance in guiding the direction of the project. Jane Paul provided much needed assistance with administrative details during my graduate studies. My fellow graduate students have been valuable to me by sharing many interesting discussions and insights.

David Teichroeb and Stephen Pogórski from Enbridge Inc. were willing to share information about the hybrid turboexpander and fuel celi technology and continue to show initiative in developing its potential. Stephen Sottile and Chris Phippen from Utilities Kingston supplied a great opportunity for analysis and invaluable data to do so.

Finally I would like to acknowledge the financial and academic support of the Fuel Celi Research Centre, Queen’s School of Graduate Studies, and Queen’s Department of Mechanical and

Materials Engineering.