Fuel Cells: How Do They Work?

Fuel cells are increasingly becoming thought of as not only the next wave of power generation, but also as a possible solution to an increasing global energy problem. If coupled with biofuels or any other renewable fuel source such as Hydrogen gas, these cells are capable of producing pollution free electricity.

Cells generate electricity through what are called redox chemical reactions rather than through burning the fuel. The difference is that in cells the energy is harnessed from the movement of electrons directly, which is far more efficient as the electricity is generated directly in the reaction. This is different from burning fuel as in a conventional power station, where the heat of the reaction is used to boil water. The steam is then used to turn a turbine to generate electricity. While conventional power stations can only convert up to 25% of the energy in fuel into electricity, cells have the capacity to convert upwards of 80% of the stored energy into electricity.

There are many different types of cells that use a wide range of fuel sources. Some are appropriate for supplying power to your home, while others can generate power on a commercial scale. Some cells are also appropriate to use in vehicles, carrying with them the promise of minimal pollution transport.

Basics

All these cells have a couple of common elements. First, all cells have a continuous supply of chemicals supplied to them. These are called the reactants since they react to release energy. Secondly, there are two electrodes (like the different ends of a battery) that are called the anode and the cathode. Third, the two electrodes are separated by a space that contains an appropriate electrolyte that allows the reactions to occur. A simplified, generic fuel cell structure is shown below:

Hydrogen Cells

Hydrogen - Oxygen cells are a proven technology that can produce clean electricity with only water as a by-product.

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