FCL3

FUEL CELL TECHNOLOGY
•
Fuel cells produce only water and heat in their energy-generating process, they are quiet, and they convert fuel to energy three to four times more efficiently than combustion.
•
Fuel cells reduce the amount of Carbone dioxide emissions by about two-thirds.
•
The intended future of fuel cells is to accomplish the following tasks:
1- Replace gas turbines in power plants,
2- Replace gasoline engines in vehicles, and
3- Replace batteries in computers and electronics.
FUEL CELL THEORY
•
First demonstrated in principle by British Scientist Sir Willliam Robert Grove in 1839.
•
Grove’s invention was based on idea of reverse electrolysis.
•
In electrolysis, an electric current is introduced in to electrolyte.
•
This flow between two electrodes causes the splitting of water.
•
A fuel cell consists of two electrodes (Anode and Cathode).
•
Hydrogen and Oxygen are fed into the cell.
•
Catalyst at Anode causes hydrogen atoms to give up electrons leaving positively charged protons.
•
Oxygen ions at Cathode side attract the hydrogen protons.
•
Protons pass through electrolyte membrane.
•
Electrons are redirected to Cathode through external circuit.
•
Thus producing the current (power).