Principles and performance and types, advantages and disadvantages of fuel cells: A review

Abstract

Fuel cell is one of the promising technologies in the production of clean energy that does not have the pollution of fossil fuels. In this technology, the chemical energy resulting from the reaction is directly converted into electrical energy. This system does not follow the Carnot cycle, so it does not have the limitations of internal combustion engines and has multiple efficiency compared to them. This system consists of two electrodes and an electrolyte in between and has different types according to the type of electrolyte. One of the factors that reduce the optimal performance of fuel cells is polarization, which is divided into three categories: ohmic, kinetic, and activation. Today, one of the newest energy production and conversion systems is the fuel cell technology, which is compatible with the environment and renewable resources. It has attracted the attention of scientists. Fuel cells are devices that convert the chemical energy of fuel directly into electrical energy. A fuel cell is like a battery, but it can provide electrical energy for a longer period of time than a battery. This paper Review, a comprehensive overview of fuel cell science and engineering with emphasis on hydrogen fuel cells. The document provides a concise, up-to-date overview of fuel cell fundamentals, their history, competing technologies, types, advantages and challenges, applications and markets for portable, stationery and transportation, current status of research and development, future goals, design levels, thermodynamic and electrochemical principles, system evaluation factors, prospects and outlook. The latest data from industry and academia was used, and the connection between fuel cell fundamentals and applications was emphasized throughout the manuscript.

Keywords

• Fuel cell
• Clean energy
• Polarization
• Oxidation-reduction reaction
• Environment
• Renewable resources