ASSIGNMENT
on Fuel cell
Submitted to:
MD. ASHADUL ISLAM
Assistant Professor, Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Submitted by:
1.Ayesha Islam-2112578112
2.Aparna Bashar Jui-2112578111
3.Eity Khatun-2112078153
4.Nazia Nusrat Nipu-2112078116
5.Sadya Al Jannat-2112578129
6.Bithi Mondol-2112378125
7.Mst. Zinnatun Nesha-2112378147
1.what is fuel cell? Describe the basic principle of fuel cell.
Fuel cell is an electrochemical cell that converts the chemical energy of a fuel (often hydrogen)
and an oxidizing agent (often oxygen) into electricity through a pair of redox reactions. A fuel
cell uses the chemical energy of hydrogen or other fuels to cleanly and efficiently produce
electricity. If hydrogen is the fuel, the only products are electricity, water, and heat. According to
the U.S. Department of Energy, fuel cells are generally between 40 and 60% energy efficient.
This is higher than some other systems for energy generation.
Basic principle of fuel cell:
The reaction between hydrogen and oxygen can be used to generate electricity via a fuel cell.
Such a cell was used in the Apollo space programme and it served two different purposes – It
was used as a fuel source as well as a source of drinking water (the water vapour produced from
the cell, when condensed, was fit for human consumption).
The working of this fuel cell involved the passing of hydrogen and oxygen into a concentrated
solution of sodium hydroxide via carbon electrodes. The cell reaction can be written as follows:
Cathode Reaction: O2 + 2H2O + 4e– → 4OH–
Anode Reaction: 2H2 + 4OH– → 4H2O + 4e–
Net Cell Reaction: 2H2 + O2 → 2H2O
However, the reaction rate of this electrochemical reaction is quite low. This issue is overcome
with the help of a catalyst such as platinum or palladium. In order to increase the effective
surface area, the catalyst is finely divided before being incorporated into the electrodes.
2.Discuss about the types of fuel cell.
Despite working similarly, there exist many varieties of fuel cells. Some types of fuel cells are
1.The Proton exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell:
These cells are also known as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (or PEMFCs).The
temperature range that these cells operate in is between 50 degree C to 100 degree C The
electrolyte used in PEMFCs is a polymer which has the ability to conduct protons .A typical
PEM fuel cell consists of bipolar plates, a catalyst, electrodes, and the polymer membrane
.Despite having eco-friendly applications in transportation, PEMFCs can also be used for the
stationary and portable generation of power
2.Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell:
These fuel cells involve the use of phosphoric acid as an electrolyte in order to channel the H+.
The working temperatures of these cells lie in the range of 150degree – 200 degree C. Electrons
are forced to travel to the cathode via an external circuit because of the nonconductive nature of
phosphoric acid. Due to the acidic nature of the electrolyte, the components of these cells tend to
corrode or oxidize over time.
3.Solid Acid Fuel Cell:
A solid acid material is used as the electrolyte in these fuel cells .The molecular structures of
these solid acids are ordered at low temperatures. At higher temperatures, a phase transition can
occur which leads to a huge increase in conductivity. Examples of solid acids include CsHSO4
and CsH2PO4 (cesium hydrogen sulfate and cesium dihydrogen phosphate respectively)
4.Alkaline Fuel Cell:
This was the fuel cell which was used as the primary source of electricity in the Apollo space
program. In these cells, an aqueous alkaline solution is used to saturate a porous matrix, which is
in turn used to separate the electrodes. The operating temperatures of these cells are quite low
(approximately 90oC).These cells are highly efficient. They also produce heat and water along
with electricity.
5.Solid Oxide Fuel Cell:
These cells involve the use of a solid oxide or a ceramic electrolyte (such as yttria-stabilized
zirconia).These fuel cells are highly efficient and have a relatively low cost (theoretical
efficiency can even approach 85%). The operating temperatures of these cells are very high
(lower limit of 600oC, standard operating temperatures lie between 800 and 1000oC).Solid oxide
fuel cells are limited to stationary applications due to their high operating temperatures.
6.Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell:
The electrolyte used in these cells is lithium potassium carbonate salt. This salt becomes liquid at
high temperatures, enabling the movement of carbonate ions. Similar to SOFCs, these fuel cells
also have a relatively high operating temperature of 650oCThe anode and the cathode of this cell
are vulnerable to corrosion due to the high operating temperature and the presence of the
carbonate electrolyte. These cells can be powered by carbon-based fuels such as natural gas and
biogas
3.Describe the unit structure of a fuel cell.
The unit structure of a fuel cell typically includes the following components:
1.Electrolyte:
A substance that conducts ions (charged particles) between the anode and cathode.
Types of electrolytes include solid polymer membranes (as in PEM fuel cells), solid ceramics (as
in SOFCs), or liquid electrolytes (as in AFCs).
2.Anode:
The electrode where the fuel (commonly hydrogen) is oxidized.
At the anode, hydrogen molecules typically split into protons (H+) and electrons (e-).
3.Cathode:
The electrode where oxygen or an oxidizing agent is reduced.
At the cathode, electrons and protons from the anode combine with oxygen to form water or
other reaction by-products, depending on the type of fuel cell.
4.Electrochemical Reaction:
The overall reaction involves the electrochemical combination of fuel and oxidant to produce
electricity, water, and heat.
In a hydrogen fuel cell, the general reaction is: 2H2+O2→2H2O electricity.
5.External Circuit:
The pathway for electrons generated at the anode to flow to the cathode, creating an electric
current that can be harnessed for power.
6.Proton Exchange (in PEM and AFC):
In PEM and AFC, protons (H+) move through the electrolyte, while electrons flow through the
external circuit, ultimately recombining at the cathode.
7.Cooling and Control Systems:
Heat generated during the electrochemical reactions needs to be managed to maintain optimal
operating conditions.
Systems for controlling fuel and oxidant flow, temperature, and pressure are crucial for efficient
fuel cell operation
4.Construction and working principle of Direct Methanol
fuel cell.
A DMFC is a type of fuel cell that uses methanol (CH3OH) directly as its fuel, unlike other fuel
cells that require an intermediate step of converting the fuel into hydrogen. Here's a breakdown
of its construction:
1. Electrodes:
Anode: Made of a porous material (often platinum or platinum alloys) coated with a catalyst.
This is where the methanol oxidation reaction takes place.
Cathode: Also made of a porous material with a catalyst (typically platinum or silver). This is
where the oxygen reduction reaction occurs.
2. Electrolyte:
A thin, proton-conducting membrane (usually Nafion) that separates the anode and cathode. It
allows protons (H+) to pass through while blocking electrons and methanol.
3. Gas Diffusion Layers (GDLs):
These are porous materials located on either side of the membrane. They help to distribute the
reactants (methanol and oxygen) and remove the products (water and carbon dioxide).
4. Current Collectors:
Conductive plates that collect the electrons produced at the anode and transfer them to the
external circuit.
5. Housing:
A container that holds all the components together and provides a sealed environment for the
reactions to occur.
Working Principle of a DMFC:
Methanol and water: A liquid mixture of methanol and water is fed to the anode.
Methanol oxidation: At the anode, the methanol undergoes an electrochemical reaction with
the catalyst, splitting into carbon dioxide, protons, and electrons:
CH3OH + H2O → CO2 + 6H+ + 6e-
Proton transport: The protons can pass through the electrolyte membrane, but the electrons
and methanol cannot.
Oxygen reduction: On the cathode side, oxygen reacts with the electrons and protons to form
water:
O2 + 4H+ + 4e- → 2H2O
Current generation: The flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode through an external
circuit generates electricity.
Overall reaction:
CH3OH + O2 → CO2 + 2H2O + Electricity
By products: The only byproducts of a DMFC are heat, water, and a small amount of carbon
dioxide, making it a clean and environmentally friendly power source.
5.Construction and working principle of Phosphoric acid
fuel cell.
Construction:
• The phosphoric acid fuel cell is considered as the first generation of modern fuel cells.It
is one of the most mature cell types and the first to be used commercially,with over 200
units currently in use.
• It consists of an anode and a cathode made of a finely dispersed plantinum catalyst on
carbon and a silicon carbide structure that holds the phosphoric acid electrolyte.
• It operates at 150-220°C.
• In phosphoric acid fuel cells ,protons move through that electrolyte to the cathode to
combine with oxygen and electrons produce water and heat.
Working principle:
• At high stable anode at high operating temperature accelerates the hydrogen oxidation
reaction rate in phosphoric acid.
• During operation,the catalyst (usually, platinum)particles have the tendency to migrate
and agglomerate into larger particles at an electrode.
• The free energy of a reaction is converted to electrical energy,, which is available in the
form of a potential difference developed between the two electrodes .
• Anode reaction:-
H2→ 2H++2e-
• Cathode reaction:-
1/2O2+2H++2e-→ H2O
• Overall cell reaction:
H2+1/2O2→H2O
6.Discuss the prospect of fuel cell to meet future energy
crisis.
Fuel cells offer a promising alternative to traditional energy sources in mitigating future energy
crises. Their ability to convert chemical energy directly into electricity without combustion
presents a plethora of benefits, including:
• Zero Emissions: Fuel cells powered by green hydrogen (produced from renewables)
generate no harmful pollutants, combating climate change and improving air quality.
• High Energy Efficiency: Fuel cells convert fuel energy into electricity with
significantly higher efficiency than traditional combustion engines, maximizing resource
utilization.
• Versatility: Fuel cells can be applied in various sectors, including transportation,
stationary power generation, and portable devices, catering to diverse energy needs.
However, challenges exist that need to be addressed for fuel cells to fully realize their potential
in tackling future energy crises. Let's analyze these through key equations:
1. Energy Density:
Equation: Energy Density (Wh/kg) = Fuel Energy (Wh/kg) * Efficiency * Conversion Factor
Challenge: Current hydrogen fuel cell energy density (~50 Wh/kg) significantly lags behind
gasoline (~130 Wh/kg), limiting vehicle range and requiring bulky storage.
Solution: Research into materials and membrane technologies for higher efficiency and lighter
fuel cell stacks can improve energy density and range.
2. Hydrogen Production and Infrastructure:
Equation: Hydrogen Production Cost
(/kg)=ElectrolysisEfficiency(kWh/kg)∗ElectricityCost(/kWh) * Capital Investment Cost
Challenge: Large-scale hydrogen production from renewable sources requires significant
upfront investment and efficient electrolyzers to reduce production costs.
Solution: Government policies supporting renewable energy infrastructure development,
advancements in electrolyzer technology, and utilizing existing natural gas infrastructure for
hydrogen blending can accelerate adoption.
3. Fuel Cell Cost and Deployment:
Equation: Fuel Cell System Cost ($/kW) = Manufacturing Cost + Installation Cost +
Maintenance Cost
Challenge: High upfront costs of fuel cell systems hinder widespread adoption, particularly in
cost-sensitive sectors like transportation.
Solution: Economies of scale through mass production, technological advancements to reduce
material costs, and government incentives for research and development can lower costs and
drive deployment.
4. Energy Security and Geopolitical Landscape:
Equation: Energy Dependence Index = (Net Imports / Total Energy Consumption) * 100
Challenge: Reliance on fossil fuels from politically unstable regions exposes nations to energy
security risks and price volatility.
Solution: Fuel cell technology, coupled with domestic renewable hydrogen production, can
enhance energy independence and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
By addressing these challenges through technological breakthroughs, policy support, and
infrastructure development, fuel cells can play a vital role in mitigating future energy crises. The
equations above highlight the critical areas where advancements are needed to unlock the full
potential of this clean and efficient technology.
7.Application and Limitation of fuel cell.
Application:
Fuel cells have diverse applications, including:
• Transportation: Powering electric vehicles with fuel cells offers a clean alternative to
traditional internal combustion engines, with longer range and faster refueling.
• Stationary Power Generation: Fuel cells can provide continuous, reliable power for
homes, businesses, and remote areas where a stable electricity supply is crucial.
• Backup Power Systems: Fuel cells serve as backup power sources for critical
infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted electricity during grid failures.
• Military Applications: Fuel cells are used in military vehicles, submarines, and remote
outposts due to their efficiency and low noise levels.
• Space Exploration: Fuel cells have been employed in space missions, such as the Apollo
program, providing a reliable source of power for spacecraft and space stations.
• Portable Electronics: Compact and lightweight fuel cells can be used to power laptops,
smartphones, and other portable devices, offering longer runtimes than traditional
batteries.
• Combined Heat and Power (CHP): Fuel cells can simultaneously produce electricity and
useful heat, making them efficient for combined heat and power applications in industrial
settings and residential areas.
• Grid Support: Fuel cells can help stabilize the electrical grid by providing grid support
services, such as frequency regulation and load following.
• Remote Sensing and Monitoring: Fuel cells are used in remote locations to power
sensors, monitoring equipment, and communication systems where grid power is
impractical.
• Marine Applications: Fuel cells can be used in ships and boats as a clean and efficient
power source, reducing emissions in marine transportation.
These applications demonstrate the versatility of fuel cells across various sectors, contributing to
a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape.
Limitations:
Fuel cells, despite their numerous advantages over traditional combustion engines, have certain
limitations that hinder their widespread adoption. Here are some of the key constraints:
• Cost: Fuel cell technology can be expensive, primarily due to the high cost of materials
such as platinum used in catalysts. This cost factor hinders widespread commercial
adoption.
• Infrastructure: The lack of a comprehensive infrastructure for hydrogen production,
distribution, and storage poses a challenge. Establishing the necessary facilities is
essential for the success of fuel cell technology.
• Durability: Some types of fuel cells can face durability issues. Factors like the
degradation of catalysts over time can impact the cell's efficiency and longevity, requiring
further research into more durable materials.
• Fuel Availability: Hydrogen, a common fuel for fuel cells, is not as readily available as
other energy sources. Producing and transporting hydrogen in a sustainable manner is a
challenge that needs to be addressed.
• Efficiency at Scale: While fuel cells are highly efficient in certain applications, their
efficiency can decrease at smaller scales. This makes them less practical for some
portable or small-scale applications compared to traditional batteries.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Some fuel cells operate optimally at specific temperature
ranges. Maintaining these conditions can be energy-intensive and may limit their
efficiency in certain environments.
• Environmental Impact: Although fuel cells produce electricity with minimal emissions,
the production of hydrogen often involves processes with environmental consequences.
The overall environmental impact needs to be considered in a holistic assessment.
Considering these limitations, ongoing research and development are crucial to addressing these
challenges and improving the overall viability of fuel cell technology.
