What are the advantages and disadvantages of Fuel Cells?The main advantages of Fuel Cells are that they can be environmentally friendly and can operate with high efficiency (for example compared to the internal combustion engine which operates at about 30%). They also operate silently.The downside is that they are expensive and technologically they pose quite complex problems. So far they have not proven commercially viable in common usage compared to the alternatives but there are a number of successful prototypes which give cause for optimism. Now with the emphasis on environmental considerations they are being actively researched and developed. Countries which are investing heavily include Canada, Japan, the US and Germany. What types of Fuel Cells are worth considering?There are several types which can be identified. Normally they are categorised by the electrolyte and each type has different properties which makes them suitable for different applications. Most types are identified below:
Fuel cells have enormous potential for cleaner energy, including the motor vehicle sector, but they are still in the research and development stage. The need to provide more environmentally friendly energy sources has made them more attractive than they were and there is considerable international investment in developing the technologies. The chemistry of the various types leads to specific applications which are best suited to each type. Development and unit costs are high, so acceptance of successful prototypes is necessary to encourage a mass market to deliver cost reductions and their eventual commercial success. We are somewhat optimistic if slightly impatient. |
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