Hydrogen fuel cell is an electricity source where chemical energy is converted to electrical energy by means of a chemical reaction of hydrogen with oxygen or another oxidizing agent. This type of cell is used as main and stand-by power source for inaccessible workplaces, residences, commercial houses and industrial establishments. Besides, boats, submarines, automobiles and two-wheelers also widely use this for getting hydrogen for fuelling themselves.

Hydrogen fuel cell, like many other cells, has positive and negative electrodes, and electrolyte for the current to pass through. Cell types differ as the electrolyte differs. With hydrogen as the fuel in such cells, the cells are classified as hydrogen fuel cell types. Normal output voltage per cell is 0.6V to 0.7V. .

More voltage is possible by stacking additional cells in series, but this would result in increase in size. That means, sizes would vary depending upon the number of cells stacked. As by-products, fuel cell produces water, heat, some other emissions and a little of nitrogen dioxide based on the fuel source. Energy efficiency lies at 40% -60%, reaching 85% during cogeneration when waste heat also is reused.

Fuel cell is working so long as the input of fuel continues. It needs continuous supply of air or oxygen to continue the chemical reaction, whereas in a battery, chemicals available in the battery react with each other to produce and store electromotive force.

Normal fuel in the cell is hydrogen produced from methane steam, a natural gas. Design and working principle in both is the same. Hydrocarbon such as natural gas or alcohol like methanol, ethanol, gasified coal and hydrogen also make good choices for higher performance.

Advantages:

Hydrogen fuel cell is versatile with any fuel, apart from being clean and pollution-free while burning. Despite low fuel consumption, it gives better performance. Space shuttles use hydrogen fuel cells getting water, heat, nitrous dioxide and some other emissions, which are recycled for living and for the probe’s operation.Weighing about 300lbs, occupying 8cft volume, and dispensing with need for compressors, it’s comfortably positioned at the front of the hood.

Some suggestions:

Provisioning processes governing fuel cell and its components are expensive. They can be made competitive. The parts also should be lightweight and small in sizes for easy mobility and handling. Mass production might be the answer for these.

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How to Build Hydrogen Generator kit for autos / automotive? Hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen car, water powered car, run car on water and show you how to use water as fuel to save gas and increase mileage. For more information, visit - http://www.buildhydrogencar.com