Fuel Cells

What is a fuel cell?

A fuel cell is a device that converts chemical energy from hydrogen and oxidizing agents into electrical energy through an electrochemical reaction. Redox reactions make this tech possible.

Innovations that make use of fuel cells.

Drones, forklifts, planes, trucks, and phones.

Advantages of fuel cells.

Operates at low temperatures, has quick start-up, and has enhanced durability.

Challenges fuel cells face.

High cost, impurities, and requires additional systems.

Facts about reversible fuel cells.

Disassociates water, makes reusable batteries, renewable energy, and quick hydrogen production.

Nafion

A non-polar, low surface energy fluoro-copolymer. It enhances stability off electrodes and has excellent film-forming ability.

What roles do cathodes and anodes play in fuel cell design and function?

In fuel cell design, cathodes and anodes serve as the electrodes where the electrochemical reactions occur, with the anode facilitating the oxidation of fuel and the cathode enabling the reduction of an oxidant, typically oxygen.

Cyclic voltammetry

A tool/graph used to understand the redox properties of a material.

Redox potential, reaction kinetics, diffusion vs electron transfer control.

It is used in fuel cells.