FUELING THE FUTURE : THE PROMISE OF FUEL CELL TECHNOLOGY

 

A fuel cell is an electrochemical device that converts chemical energy from a fuel source into electrical energy. It works by using an anode a cathode and an electrolyte to facilitate a reaction between the fuel and an oxidizing agent.

There are several types of fuel cells, each using a different type of fuel and electrolyte . The most common type is hydrogen fuel cell, which uses hydrogen as the fuel and oxygen as the oxidizing agent . These types of fuel cells are often used in vehicles , as well as in stationary power generation systems.

WORKING PRINCIPLE

• The basic working principle of a fuel cell is the conversion of chemical energy from a fuel source into electrical energy through an electrochemical process . This process involves the use of anode and cathode, along with an electrolyte.
• At the anode fuel , such as hydrogen is introduced and is oxidized , releasing electrons.
• The electrons are then sent through an external circuit , such as a wire , to create an electrical current.
• At the cathode , oxygen is introduced , and it reacts with the electrons from the external circuit and hydrogen ions from the electrolyte to form water.
• The electrolyte is a material that conducts protons and usually a solid polymer or an ion- conducting liquid.
• The Over all chemical reaction that takes place in a hydrogen and oxygen to produce water , heat and electricity.
• The efficiency of the fuel is dependent on the dependent on the type of fuel cell used , the quality of the electrolyte , and the temperature of the reactions.

ADVANTAGES

• High efficiency.
• Clean energy.
• Quiet operation.
• Long life.
• Scalable.
• Versatility.
• Reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
• Fuel flexibility.

DISADVANTAGES

• High cost.
• Lack of infrastructure.
• Durability.
• Complexity.
• Safety concerns.
• Limited availability of fuels.
• Storage of hydrogen.
• Water management.