What are the different types of fuel cells?
fuel cells convert chemical energy into electricity. They are similar to batteries, except that chemical reactants in the fuel cell can be complemented when they run out. The fuel cell is usually characterized by the type of electrolyte used, its operating temperature and possible applications. Most fuel cell research has been concentrated on automotive applications, although it is also examined for space exploration.
The type of fuel cell is the type of electrolyte used. The electrolyte in the fuel cell connects electrically fuel and oxidative oxidative and maintains them physically separate. Electrolytes used in fuel cell technology can be either liquid or solid, leading to different design benefits and challenges.
The useful way of classification of fuel cells is their working temperature. Many patterns such as fuel cell with solid oxide oxide require a high operating temperature to achieve high energy efficiency. Reaction Natyto tallTemperatures can often turn more internal chemical energy into electricity, rather than losing a lot of energy by waste heat. On the other hand, fuel cells with lower operating temperatures are usually more portable. Fuel cells from PEMFC (PEMFC) are studied for their promising application during transport.
PEMFC can achieve relatively high efficiency in operation at a temperature of less than 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius). Such a low operating temperature allows you to start the fuel cell rapidly. This type of fuel cell also uses a solid plastic film as an electrolyte that facilitates fuel cell seal than other types of electrolytes. This combination of functions has made PEMFC an ideal candidate to replace automotive combustion engines.
Some speculated that fuel cells eventually future gasoline transport systems completely. Economy based on guideKu, rather than oil, could look forward to several key advantages. First, the emissions of vehicles would be limited to water vapor, which is not an apparent threat of the environment. Second, hydrogen -powered vehicles can eventually prove stronger per unit of fuel. Finally, the hydrogen offer could be a potentially renewable source, unlike fossil fuels that are not renewable.
alkaline fuel cells are a type used in space exploration, including Apollo Spaceflights to the Moon. They combine hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, release heat and water in this process. Aqueous alkaline solution is used as an electrolyte in this type of fuel cell. Alkaline fuel cells have a high level of technological development and may have an electrical efficiency of up to 60%. However, the costs of these fuel cells prevented their extensive acceptance in terrestrial applications.