Making a Hydrogen Fuel Cell: Is it Possible?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of fuel cells to produce electricity and heat using hydrogen and oxygen. The speakers mention solid oxide and molten carbonate fuel cells as potential options, and explore the idea of using a fuel cell as a rechargeable lighter. They also discuss the use of bunsen burners and the potential risks and costs associated with hydrogen storage.
  • #1
banerjeerupak
123
1
how do i make a fuel cell which utilises hydrogen and oxygen to make water and in the meantime give out loads of heat. is it possible?:
 
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  • #2
The entire purpose of fuel cells is to make electricity with minimal heat production to prevent energy wastage.
That said, you can look into solid oxide fuel cells. They operate at temperatures from 800-1000K and thus can be used in cogeneration plants for high efficiency.
 
  • #3
Think about it. The reaction you are referring to, that of oxygen and hydrogen making water and heat is combustion.

Exactly what a hydrogen-fueled bunsen burner does. Water and heat.

So you don't want a fuel cell. Just mix your gases and ignite. Just don't blow things up or burn down your house.
 
  • #4
doesn't the bunsen burner utilise methane in producing the heat.
or is it the good old hydrogen that has to be burnt
 
  • #5
The bunsen can pretty much use any gaseous fuel, I suppose.

Put in an atomizer and you might be able to use liquid fuel too. Although most liquid-fueled burners use a wick, I suppose.

Why not make a "rechargable" cigarette lighter where you add water and plug it into the power outlet?
 
  • #7
sid_galt said:
That said, you can look into solid oxide fuel cells. They operate at temperatures from 800-1000K and thus can be used in cogeneration plants for high efficiency.

Also Molten Carbonate can do the work, can it?

I think that SOFC could do a great work in trains for non yet electrified railways: even the heat can be used for the passenger cabins. And a train has a fixed schedule, so no problem about start-up time because in can be forecasted in advance.
 
  • #8
banerjeerupak said:
doesn't the bunsen burner utilise methane in producing the heat.
or is it the good old hydrogen that has to be burnt
Not in any lab I have ever been in. If the flame were burning H2 you'd never see it. Hydrogen storage is also expensive and risky. I'm sure the only thing you have seen a bunsen burner using is natural gas.
 

1. How does a hydrogen fuel cell work?

A hydrogen fuel cell works by converting the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen into electricity through an electrochemical process. Hydrogen gas is fed into the anode of the fuel cell, where it is split into protons and electrons. The protons then pass through an electrolyte to the cathode, while the electrons are forced through an external circuit, creating an electric current. At the cathode, the protons, electrons, and oxygen combine to form water, which is the only byproduct of this process.

2. Is it possible to power a car with a hydrogen fuel cell?

Yes, it is possible to power a car with a hydrogen fuel cell. In fact, many car manufacturers are already producing hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. These vehicles use a fuel cell stack to convert hydrogen into electricity, powering an electric motor that drives the car. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are known for their zero emissions and long range capabilities, making them a promising alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles.

3. What are the advantages of using a hydrogen fuel cell?

One of the main advantages of using a hydrogen fuel cell is that it produces zero emissions, making it a clean and environmentally friendly energy source. Hydrogen is also abundantly available, and can be produced through various processes such as electrolysis of water or steam reformation of natural gas. Additionally, fuel cell vehicles have a longer range compared to battery electric vehicles, and can be refueled in a matter of minutes.

4. Are there any challenges to implementing hydrogen fuel cells?

Yes, there are several challenges to implementing hydrogen fuel cells. One of the main challenges is the high cost of production and infrastructure. Building a hydrogen fueling station can be expensive, and the production of hydrogen currently relies on fossil fuels, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. There are also safety concerns surrounding the storage and transportation of hydrogen, as it is highly flammable.

5. Can hydrogen fuel cells be used for other applications besides transportation?

Yes, hydrogen fuel cells have a wide range of potential applications besides transportation. They can be used to power buildings, homes, and even entire communities. Fuel cells can also provide backup power for critical facilities such as hospitals and data centers. Additionally, fuel cells can be used in portable devices, such as laptops and cell phones, to provide a longer-lasting and cleaner source of energy compared to traditional batteries.

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