Fuel-Cell Operation

Since 1984 research on PEM fuel cells has reduced the amount of expensive platinum needed by more than 100 times.  Less expensive materials for the bipolar plates, such as plastics and coated steel, are also being tested.  Engineers have also made fuel cells smaller and lighter by making the plates thinner.

Types of fuel cells

Fuel cells are classified primarily by the kind of electrolyte they use.  The electrolyte determines which chemical reactions take place in the cell, which fuels and catalysts are required, the cell’s operating temperature and other factors.  These characteristics, in turn, affect the applications for which these cells are most suitable. 

Several types of fuel cells are under development.  Each has its own advantages, limitations, and potential applications.