How do fuel cells work?

In contrast to electrolytic cells, fuel cells operate by converting chemical energy into electrical energy through the external supply of oxygen and hydrogen (Fig. 3 b). Under acidic conditions, the supplied hydrogen is oxidized into the hydrogen ions, generating electrical power through the HOR, as demonstrated in Eq. (5).

Can electrolyzers and fuel cells be used to design energy storage systems?

This is promising for the design of highly-efficient energy storage systems with electrolyzers and fuel cells. Current–voltage characteristics in electrolyzer mode using the AFC with 1.5 mm electrolyte-gap at different temperatures.

Are electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems a viable alternative to fossil fuels?

To address climate change and promote environmental sustainability, electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems emerge as promising alternative to fossil fuels, catering to the escalating demand for energy.

What are reversible fuel cells?

Reversible fuel cells based on both proton exchange membrane fuel cell and solid oxide fuel cell technologies have been proposed to address energy storage and conversion challenges and to provide versatile pathways for renewable fuels production.

How do fuel cells convert chemical energy into electric energy?

In fuel cells the chemical energy of the hydrogen is directly converted into electric energy using an electrochemical process. The maximum effectively useful energy (exergy) is given by the GIBBs free reaction enthalpy ΔG.

How do PEM-based fuel cells work?

PEM-based fuel cells operate in the reverse mode of PEM electrolyzers, consisting of hydrogen and oxygen gas flow channels, gas diffusion layers (GDLs), catalyst layers (CLs) and a proton exchange membrane (PEM, Fig. 3a) 3. They convert chemical energy stored in hydrogen into electrical energy and generate water as a byproduct and waste heat.