What is the principle of hydrogen fuel cells?
1 Answers
Hydrogen fuel cells operate on the principle of the reverse reaction of water electrolysis. Hydrogen and oxygen are supplied to the anode and cathode, respectively. The hydrogen diffuses outward through the anode, reacts with the electrolyte, and releases electrons that travel through an external load to reach the cathode. A hydrogen fuel cell is a device that generates electricity through the chemical reaction of hydrogen with oxygen (pure hydrogen combustion-driven "hydrogen internal combustion engines" have also existed, such as BMW's Hydrogen 7). The driving force of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle comes from an onboard electric motor, similar to a pure electric vehicle. Therefore, a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle can be understood as an "electric vehicle with its own hydrogen fuel generator." Advantages of hydrogen fuel cells: No pollution: Hydrogen fuel cells are environmentally friendly. They rely on electrochemical reactions rather than combustion (gasoline or diesel) or energy storage (batteries). Combustion releases pollutants like carbon monoxide and particulates, while fuel cells only produce water and heat. No noise: Hydrogen fuel cells operate quietly, with noise levels around 55dB, equivalent to normal human conversation. This makes them suitable for indoor installation or outdoor locations with noise restrictions. High efficiency: The power generation efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells can exceed 50%, determined by their conversion properties. They directly convert chemical energy into electricity without the intermediate steps of thermal and mechanical energy (generators).