The Process:
1. Hydrogen Supply: Hydrogen gas (H₂) is fed into the anode side of the fuel cell.
2. Electrochemical Reaction at the Anode: Hydrogen molecules are split into protons
(H⁺) and electrons (e⁻) by the catalyst.
o Anode Reaction:
2H2→4H++4e−2H_2 \rightarrow 4H^+ + 4e^-2H2→4H++4e−
3. Proton Movement: The protons (H⁺) move through the electrolyte to the cathode side,
while the electrons (e⁻) travel through an external circuit, generating an electric current.
4. Oxygen Supply: On the cathode side, oxygen gas (O₂) from the air is fed in.
5. Electrochemical Reaction at the Cathode: The protons, electrons, and oxygen combine
to form water (H₂O) as a byproduct.
o Cathode Reaction:
O2+4H++4e−→2H2OO_2 + 4H^+ + 4e^- \rightarrow 2H_2OO2+4H+
+4e−→2H2O
6. Water: The water produced is usually expelled as vapor or liquid, depending on the
temperature and conditions.
Advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells:
1. Zero Emissions: The only byproduct of hydrogen fuel cells is water vapor, making them
an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuel-based energy sources.
2. Efficiency: Hydrogen fuel cells are often more efficient than traditional combustion
engines (e.g., internal combustion engines in vehicles).
3. Quiet Operation: Fuel cells operate quietly compared to internal combustion engines,
making them ideal for applications like cars, buses, and stationary power generation.
4. Scalability: Fuel cells can be used in a variety of sizes, from small portable devices to
large power plants.
5. Sustainability: If the hydrogen is produced from renewable sources (such as wind, solar,
or electrolysis of water), the entire process can be considered sustainable.
Challenges and Limitations:
1. Hydrogen Production: Currently, most hydrogen is produced from natural gas in a
process called steam methane reforming (SMR), which emits CO₂. Only a small
percentage of hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, which can be powered by
renewable energy.
2. Storage and Distribution: Hydrogen is difficult to store and transport due to its low
energy density. It must be stored at high pressure, in liquid form, or in metal hydrides, all
of which pose challenges in terms of safety and cost.
3. Cost: Hydrogen fuel cells, particularly the catalysts (often platinum), can be expensive.
The cost of hydrogen production, storage, and transportation also adds to the overall
price.
4. Infrastructure: A widespread infrastructure for hydrogen refueling stations is still in
development. As of now, hydrogen refueling stations are limited in number, particularly
compared to electric vehicle charging stations.
Applications of Hydrogen Fuel Cells:
1. Transportation: Hydrogen fuel cells are used in some passenger vehicles (e.g., Toyota
Mirai, Hyundai Nexo) and heavy-duty trucks, buses, and trains. The technology offers
long-range, quick refueling times, and zero emissions.
2. Stationary Power Generation: Fuel cells can provide backup power for homes,
businesses, and even entire buildings. They are also used in remote or off-grid locations.
3. Portable Power: Smaller fuel cells are used in portable devices like laptops,
smartphones, and even drones, providing an alternative to battery-based power systems.
4. Space Exploration: NASA has used hydrogen fuel cells in spacecraft for decades, as the
system provides both power and drinking water through the electrochemical reaction.
