A hydrogen fuel cell, also known as a fuel cell stack, is a very versatile and good source of clean energy. People use this in transportation nowadays, especially in cars and trucks.
This fuel cell uses reverse electrolysis technology to generate electricity. That is a very reliable and good source of clean energy. The process does not emit any harmful bi-products only water comes out, which is environment friendly.
In this blog, we will understand what is hydrogen fuel cell cars and how it works.
1. Process of Hydrogen Fuel Cell – Working
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We must determine the source of the hydrogen and the method of electricity generation in a hydrogen fuel cell, which in turn powers the car.
One of the most preferred methods to generate hydrogen gas for hydrogen fuel cells is electrolysis. In the fuel cell stack of a car, we use reverse electrolysis to convert hydrogen gas into electricity.
2. Producing Hydrogen for Hydrogen Fuel Cells – Electrolysis
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For hydrogen fuel cells, we make the hydrogen through electrolysis. In this process, electricity splits water molecules (H2O) into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2).
In a container, one electrode serves as the anode, attracting negatively charged ions, while the other acts as the cathode, attracting positively charged ions. These electrodes are immersed in water.
When electricity is passed through this container, a chemical reaction occurs, splitting the water into its ions (OH- and H+). The anode attracts the negatively charged ion (OH-) from the water, releasing oxygen gas (O2). Meanwhile, the cathode attracts the positively charged ion, hydrogen ions (H+), resulting in the formation of hydrogen gas (H2).
The produced hydrogen is stored in high-pressure tanks or can be converted into liquid form for transportation.
3. Generating Electricity from Hydrogen Fuel Cells – Reverse Electrolysis
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We use hydrogen fuel cells to produce electricity, with hydrogen being a necessary requirement. We keep a hydrogen tank on hand and fill it up, similar to how we handle gasoline or diesel.
Hydrogen Fuel Supply: The anode side of the fuel cell stack receives a supply of hydrogen gas (H2). At the anode, hydrogen molecules break into protons (H+) and electrons (e-).
Electrochemical Reaction: The electrons must travel through an external circuit to reach the cathode, while the protons flow through the electrolyte membrane to reach the cathode side of the fuel cell. The electric current produced by the electrons moving through the external circuit can power numerous electrical devices.
Combining with Oxygen: Protons and electrons that have reached the cathode undergo a reaction with oxygen gas (O2) supplied from the air on the cathode side. The resultant product of the combination of protons, electrons, and oxygen is water (H2O).
Continuous Flow: The electrochemical reaction continues to produce electricity as long as there is a supply of hydrogen fuel and oxygen, and the fuel cell stack remains operational.
4. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Efficiency and Impact on Environment
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The exceptional efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells in directly converting chemical energy into electrical power is well-known.
Unlike conventional combustion engines, which waste a large amount of energy as heat, fuel cells can convert hydrogen into electricity with an efficiency of 60% or higher.
In applications like transportation and stationary power generation, this high efficiency can lead to improved performance and reduced operating costs by making more efficient use of energy resources.
Hydrogen fuel cells (HFCs) eliminate the need to handle and store hazardous chemicals, unlike diesel fuel or battery acid. They serve as a sustainable power source with zero emissions, producing only heat and water when powered by pure hydrogen, thus achieving zero carbon output.
5. Conclusion
When considering hydrogen fuel cell cars, they emerge as a compelling alternative to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. Not only is hydrogen comparatively inexpensive, but it also boasts a clean profile, emitting nothing but water as a by-product. Yet, amidst its advantages, there are noteworthy safety considerations to address.
Hydrogen, being highly flammable, poses fire risks even with minor leaks in the gas tank. However, with ongoing research and development, solutions to such challenges are likely to emerge. Looking ahead, hydrogen holds immense promise as the fuel of the future, thanks to its zero carbon emissions and superior efficiency.
As advancements continue, hydrogen fuel cell cars are poised to revolutionize the automotive industry, offering a greener and more sustainable mode of transportation for generations to come.