Fuel Cell
A device that converts the chemical energy obtained from a redox reaction directly into electrical energy. A fuel cell is a battery where reactants are supplied to the cell from an external source.
The most commonly cited example is the hydrogen fuel cell, in which hydrogen and oxygen are combined, producing electric current and water.
Schematic of a fuel cell
The basic types of fuel cell are:
- Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC)
- Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC)
- Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC)
- Polymer Electrode Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC)
- Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC)
Historical Notes
- 1839 Fuel Cell invented by William Grove.
- 1959 First successful fuel cell produced by Francis Bacon.
- 1966 The first fuel cell car - GM Electrovan.
See also: Auxiliary Power Unit, Bacon, Francis Thomas, Battery, Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers, Range Extender, Solid Oxide Fuel Cell.
Subjects: Automotive Chemistry Electronics Mechanical Engineering
- Weblinks:
- Fuel Cell Research - Brimingham University The Birmingham Fuel Cells Group (FCG) is part of the School of Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, formed in early 2000.
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell UK Portal with News, Resources and useful links to information on Fuel Cells.
- Scottish Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association Promotes and develops Scottish expertise in fuel cells and hydrogen technologies.
- Intelligent Energy With our proprietary fuel cell and hydrogen generation technology platforms, we have the building blocks to create bespoke power systems for OEMs and their global mass markets.
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell UK Portal with News, Resources and useful links to information on Fuel Cells.