The Physics of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
As the world shifts towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, hydrogen fuel cells have emerged as a promising technology with the potential to revolutionize the way we power our vehicles. In previous articles, I looked at how hydrogen is produced, transported, stored, and burned. In this article, I delve into the physics and working principles behind hydrogen fuel cells, highlighting their current applications, the potential for improvement, and their pivotal role in extending the range of electric vehicles.
The Physics Behind Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Hydrogen fuel cells operate on the principles of electrochemistry. At their core, they consist of an anode (negative electrode), a cathode (positive electrode), and an electrolyte in between. The most common type of hydrogen fuel cell is the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The electrolyte in a PEMFC is a proton-conducting polymer membrane.
The commonly used electrolyte material in PEMFCs is a perfluorosulfonic acid polymer, with Nafion being one of the most well-known examples. Nafion is a synthetic polymer that has excellent proton-conducting properties, high chemical stability, and good mechanical strength. It allows protons to move through its structure while repelling electrons, ensuring the efficient flow of electric current and…
