L5

03/08/26 Mon 14:03pm

Applications of Hydrogen Fuel Cell in Mobile and Stationary Engines

Anode Reaction

$$2H_2\to 4H^{+}+4e^{-}$$

Cathode Reaction

$$O_2+4H^{+}+4e^{-}\to 2H_{2}O$$

PEM (proton exchange membrane) stack

advantages

1. Higher efficiency compared to IC engine
2. Zero emissions at the point of use
3. No moving parts in the stack, so quieter

challenges facing fuel cells

1. cost ( materials, labor, economy of scale)
2. Durability (membrane, catalyst)
3. Lack of H2 Infrastructure : H2 is difficult to produce, transport, and store

Why Challenges Matter?

1. Material Durability

Catalyst, membrane, supports, seals, and, metallic components degrade under electrochemical, thermal, and mechanical stress.

2. System Design

Stack architecture, water/thermal control, balance-of-plant, packaging, cost, and controls must be integrated as one system.

3. Safety Management

Hydrogen storage,

Core stack functions
convert h2 and o2 to electricity heat and water
maintain gas diffusion and ionic/electronic conduction
prevent crossover while keeping low resistance

Balance of plant
hydrogen supply and pressure regulation
air compressor/blower and humidification
cooling loop, sensors, power electronics controls

Material Challenges

1. Catalyst Layer

pt loading and durability remain critical, dissolution agglomeration poisoning and poor utilization reduce activity.

2. Membrane and Ionomer

radical attack, pinhole formation, swelling