Fuel cell technology

Abstract

Fuel cells offer the transport sector the promise of decreased dependence on fossil fuels, low or zero emissions, and high efficiency. Unlike internal combustion engines, fuel cells convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy, producing much less waste heat and offering a much higher theoretical efficiency. Unlike batteries, fuel cells can run continuously with continuous input of reactants (fuel and oxidant). Fuel cells run best on pure or reformed hydrogen but some can operate directly on alternative fuels such as methanol or hydrocarbons.