FUEL CELL - An alternate energy

FUEL CELL - An alternate energy

ABSTRACT

The demand of fuel cell is ever increasing. In view of the depleting natural resources, it is essential that we explore alternative energy sources. The energy sources should be efficient, stable, clean and economical. Also the growth of the country directly depends on the energy resources. Therefore, every country is looking for alternatives for traditional energy sources, being used today. Recently in JAPAN some of the developed countries signed Kyoto protocol under which they agreed to cut the % of emission of harmful gases. Although the traditional energy sources cannot be completely replaced, fuel cells are the most promising option for petrol, diesel, coal etc. We can call the fuel cell the future face of energy.

A fuel cell works similar to a battery. A fuel cell can produce electricity as long as more fuel and oxidant is pumped through it there are numerous types of fuel cell that have been made, such as SOLID OXIDE (SOFC), DIRECT ALCOHOL (DAFC), POLYMER ELECTROLYTE (PEFC), PHOSPHORIC ACID (PACFC), MOLTEN CARBONATE (MCFC) & ALKALINE (AFC), The application of Fuel cell ranges from simple batteries, cars to electric generators.
DMFC & PEFC are the most probable for automotive sector which will out do present conventional gasoline engines & electric powered engines.
SOFC &MCFC are the most probable for medium range power plant, are more efficient than conventional small gas turbines.
In the near future with extended research work the benefits of both conventional &fuel cell can be utilized by fusing them.
The article introduces the concept of ‘fuel cell’, its working, types, application and research in India and other parts of world.