What is a fuel cell for replacing protons?

Fuel cell for replacing the Proton membrane (PEMFC) is a fuel cell that uses electrical energy hydrogen and oxygen. Its distinguishing feature is an electrolyte membrane called the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which allows the protons to pass but not electrons. Poton fuel cell has potential applications such as stationary and portable fuel cell.

MEA has an anode side and a cathode side. The electric current flows to the anode side of Mea and from its cathode side. The fuel cell for the proton replacement of the membrane supplies the hydrogen gas into the anode side of the Mea, which divides the hydrogen atoms into electrons and protons, which is a process that can be shown by the equation: H2 -> 2e- + 2h +. The protons in this reaction travel to the MEA to the side of the cathode and electrons pass to the side of the MEA cathode through the outer circuit. The combination of these processes creates an electric current.

The fuel cell of the proton replacement is also supplied by Oxygen gas to the MEA cathode. If the diatomical molecules can beThe promise (O2) divided into oxygen atoms, the protons passing through the Mea may respond with these oxygen atoms to form water molecules. This reaction can also be shown by the equation: o + 2h + + 2e- -> h _{2 O.}

MEA must meet several criteria to produce electricity. This cannot allow the hydrogen or oxygen gas to pass. MEA must also be able to withstand the oxidation effect on the anode side and a reduction effect on the side of the cathode.

Platinum catalysts can be used to divide hydrogen molecules with relatively ease. However, the distribution of oxygen molecules with platinum catalysts cause significant electrical losses. Another problem with platinum catalysts is that a very small amount of carbon dioxide significantly reduces their performance. Scientists have not discovered a practical productaily for the distribution of oxygen molecules since 2010, but a catalyst composed of carbon, iron and nitrogen has proven the most promisemore. The primary problem with this catalyst is that its reaction rate decreases rapidly for a short time.

water also causes electrical losses in the fuel cell on the proton membrane. The fuel cell must prevent excessive water from flooding the Mea, but to allow enough water to prevent MEA from drying out. The water management in the fuel cell for replacing the protons is difficult because the water is attracted by the cathode side of the Mea. Electrosmotic pumps are one of the possible solutions to this problem.