What are the four main parts of a PEMFC?

What are the four main parts of a PEMFC?

PEMFCs are built out of membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) which include the electrodes, electrolyte, catalyst, and gas diffusion layers.

How does a PEMFC work?

In PEMFCs, the hydrogen is converted into proton ion on the catalyst surface and release electron in the anode chamber. The proton ion flows by the conductive electrolyte membrane whereas electron is driven through the external circuit to produce electricity, then it enters to the other side.

Which is better PEMFC or SOFC?

PEMFC has a lower capex compared to SOFC but SOFC can utilize natural gas which is cheaper than hydrogen. PEMFC has the highest power to volume ratio, however it runs on hydrogen which has low volumetric density compared to tradition marine fuels.

What are the applications of PEMFC?

The review shows that PEMFC have the most promising applications to buses, recreation vehicles, and lightweight vehicles. Without doubt, the technology for a stable supply of high-purity hydrogen along with the corresponding infrastructure is essential for the success of PEMFC in various application fields.

What does PEMFC mean?

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) are a sustainable means of power generation through electrochemical conversion of hydrogen-containing fuels especially in portable, stationary, and automotive applications.

What is MEA in PEMFC?

The Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) is the core component of a fuel cell that helps produce the electrochemical reaction needed to separate electrons.

What is the disadvantage of PEMFC?

Proton Exchange Membrane (PEMFC) The major disadvantage of PEM fuel cells is that they require an expensive catalyst, in this case platinum, which adds to the overall unit cost. Hydrogen delivery is also another significant barrier is it requires careful handling and storage.

Which fuel cell is best?

Alkaline Fuel Cells Operating at 60-70ºC (140-158ºF), AFCs are among the most efficient type of fuel cells, reaching up to 60% efficiency and up to 87% combined heat and power.

How does methanol fuel cell work?

In principle, its design is similar to that of a battery. It has an anode and a cathode. They are separated by a membrane. By means of an electrochemical reaction, the direct methanol fuel cell converts the fuel, i.e. methanol, into electricity in combination with oxygen.

How do methanol fuel cells work?

By means of an electrochemical reaction, the direct methanol fuel cell converts the fuel, i.e. methanol, into electricity in combination with oxygen. The only waste products of the combustion process are waste heat, water vapor and a small amount of carbon dioxide.

How does fuel cell work?

A fuel, such as hydrogen, is fed to the anode, and air is fed to the cathode. In a hydrogen fuel cell, a catalyst at the anode separates hydrogen molecules into protons and electrons, which take different paths to the cathode. The electrons go through an external circuit, creating a flow of electricity.

What is PEM membrane made of?

A proton-exchange membrane, or polymer-electrolyte membrane (PEM), is a semipermeable membrane generally made from ionomers and designed to conduct protons while acting as an electronic insulator and reactant barrier, e.g. to oxygen and hydrogen gas.