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Hydrogen fuel cells compared to rechargeable batteries

Energy changes • Chemical and fuel cells

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • A hydrogen fuel cell converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy by oxidising hydrogen at the anode and reducing oxygen at the cathode.
  • An electrolyte conducts ions between electrodes while an external circuit carries electrons, producing a continuous electric current as long as fuel and oxidant are supplied.
  • Hydrogen supply and handling are limiting factors since hydrogen has high energy per mass but low energy per volume at normal conditions, necessitating compression or liquefaction, which complicates the system.

Flashcards

Test your knowledge with interactive flashcards

What practical advantage do fuel cells offer for heavy-duty transport?

Click to reveal answer

They enable fast refuelling and provide high energy per unit mass, resulting in lighter vehicles compared to large battery packs.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Hydrogen fuel cells produce water, but lifecycle emissions depend on production methods.

Hydrogen has high energy per mass but low energy per volume at ambient conditions, necessitating compression or liquefaction.

Batteries offer higher round-trip efficiency by avoiding multiple energy conversions.

Catalyst costs and hydrogen infrastructure are key limiting factors for fuel cells.

Battery life decreases with cycling and temperature extremes, influencing replacement needs.

Hydrogen refuelling occurs in minutes; battery charging times vary based on power and size.

Lifecycle environmental impacts hinge on production methods and recycling capabilities for both technologies.

Application suitability balances energy density, efficiency, refuelling or charging needs, cost, and infrastructure.

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