Recently we have been hearing a lot about hydrogen fuel cells and the possible applications where they can be used, specifically in automobiles, but what exactly are they and why are they considered eco-friendly?
A fuel cell is a device that is able to harness the energy stored in the chemical bonds of molecules. Hydrogen fuel cells, in particular, get this energy from the bonds in Hydrogen (H2) and Oxygen (O2) gas. On one side of the cell, H2 is pumped in. On the other side of the cell O2 is pumped in. Separating these two sides are a proton permeable membrane. The function of this membrane is to allow protons to pass through while blocking the pathway of electrons, thus effectively harnessing this electrical energy.
These cells are considered environmentally friendly because of the “waste” they produce. While most sources of power produce carbon dioxide gas (CO2) as a byproduct, hydrogen fuel cells produce water and excess O2 and H2. These products can be easily used as sources for other processes and are harmless if left in the environment. Further, the chemicals required for this process can be synthesized or collected very efficiently. O2 is readily available and attainable in the air we breathe. There are many pathways for H2 production. A very environmentally friendly way is through harnessing the H2 produced by microorganisms such as algae through biological processes. These processes of attaining fuel for energy production are very eco-friendly when compared with oil mining which is used to extract petroleum for energy on a large scale.
Hydrogen fuel cell concept car by Toyota via. flickrcommons
Overall, hydrogen fuel cells provide the world with a very environmentally friendly way to produce energy we use everyday. If we can begin to use this technology on a large scale to replace current methods, we can effectively decrease the amount of pollution we put into our environment everyday while still quenching our energy needs.
Author Parvin Pabla
