Fuel cells are getting a lot of hype about being a fantastic energy source, and in reality, they do have potential to become widely used. The cells work by consuming a fuel and an oxidant, and in the presence of a catalyzing electrolyte. In essence, they convert chemical energy to electrical energy. The most popular type of fuel cell is the hydrogen cell, as it can use the abundant element hydrogen as fuel and oxygen (from air) as the oxidant. In this way, massive amounts of electrical energy can be derived and used to power anything from cars to spacecraft.
There are many types of fuel cells, many of which are named after the electrolyte utilized. A few types are already in mass production, but the majority are in the research or basic commercial phase. Different fuel cells are fitted to unique situations, and some are more efficient than others. For example, an alkaline fuel cell has a 62% system efficiency, while a phosphoric acid cell has a system efficiency of 40%.
Despite the benefits of fuel cells, a few complications are present which inhibit their commercial application. For one, they are inherently expensive due to the need to use platinum, which is one of the most pricey metals on the market. Fuel cells can be easily damaged by varying heats and hydration levels. Scientists are working hard to overcome these drawbacks, and if all of them can be eliminated, fuel cells could become our primary energy source.
Applications of fuel cells include vehicles (such as cars and boats), computers, phones, and as a general power supply for buildings and homes. Some cars have already been designed to run on hydrogen fuel cells, and more are in development. The future possibilities for fuel cells are endless, and only time will tell how prominent they become.
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