Principle of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

GENERAL CONTEXT

The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is an electrochemical converter which produces electricity and heat from hydrogen and oxygen, with water as the only by product during operation (Figure 1). With its fast starting at room temperature, its versatility, its high power density and efficiency, it is considered as a promising energy source as an alternative to fossil fuels, for use in portable, stationary and transportapplications [1].

Figure 1 : Schematic representation of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell

Real fuel cells are made of a series of single cells (Fig. 1) assembled into so-called stacks, as displayed inFigure 2a. The stack design, namely cellsize and number of unit cells, is adapted according tothe targeted operating conditions and application.

Figure 2. (a) Schematic drawing of a PEMFC stack and single cell. (b) Picture of an Hybrid Fuel Cell car integrating a PEMFC stack developed at CEA (inserted picture)

Date: 2015-01-11; view: 1472