The Chemical Principles of Fuel Cells and Their Applications

Abstract

Fuel cells are electrochemical energy-conversion devices that generate electricity from chemical reactions without requiring direct combustion of the fuel. Their operation depends on oxidation at the anode, reduction at the cathode, ion transport through an electrolyte, and electron flow through an external circuit. Hydrogen fuel cells are particularly important in discussions of low-carbon energy systems, while other fuel-cell types can use methanol, natural gas-derived hydrogen, or other fuels. Advances in catalysts, membranes, electrodes, electrolytes, and cell architectures have improved efficiency and durability. This paper examines nine major dimensions of fuel-cell chemistry, including electrochemical principles, electrode reactions, electrolyte function, catalysts, major fuel-cell types, hydrogen fuel, efficiency, applications, and future sustainable developments.