Can Methane Be Used to Create a H2 Fuel Cell?

In summary, the conversation discussed the possibility of using a methane fuel cell to release electricity, but it is less popular due to the production of CO2 as a waste product. The availability and lower pollution level of methane compared to hydrogen were also mentioned. The conversation also touched upon the extraction of natural gas from water and the potential of oxidizing H2S, a gas found in natural gas, to produce electricity. The speakers also asked about testing for trace amounts of H2S and the use of a catalyst for this process.
  • #1
JGM_14
158
0
could one make a fuel cell that would oxidise methane to release electricity the way that a H2 fuel cell does?
 
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  • #2
Yes, of course, but the one of the waste products from the methane fuel cell is [tex]CO_2 [/tex], this being a greenhouse gas, makes the fuel cell less attractive an option and hence less popular an option than the hydrogen fuel cell, which gives off only water as waste.
 
  • #3
considering the avalibility of methane as opposed to hydrogen
it isless polluting than thecombustion of it in an engine whereit can yeild nitrogencompounds, ozone, carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases due to the rapid combustion phase of most 4 cycle, and 2 cycle internal combustion engines, 2 cycles are the worst for this because of their speed and the fact that they burn the oil along with the gasoline
if you were to oxidise H2S, one of the gases in natural gas, would you get H2SO4, just curious because we have an abundance of natural gas in our water which can be extracted. At times our water is white when it comes out of our faucet due to the dissolved natural gas under pressure
i have extracted 3 1/2 gallons of unpressureized natural gas running water at a rate of about 5 gallons per hour through a homemade water degasser for 24 hours
Could one oxidise any flammable gas to yeild electricity?
How do you test for trace amounts of H2S?
 
  • #4
what would i have to use as a catalyst?
 

1. What is methane?

Methane is a chemical compound with the formula CH4. It is the simplest alkane and the main component of natural gas.

2. How can methane be used to create a H2 fuel cell?

Methane can be used to create a H2 fuel cell through a process called steam reforming. In this process, methane reacts with steam to produce hydrogen gas, which can then be used in a fuel cell to produce electricity.

3. What is a H2 fuel cell?

A H2 fuel cell, also known as a hydrogen fuel cell, is an electrochemical cell that converts the chemical energy of hydrogen gas into electricity. It consists of an anode, cathode, and electrolyte, and produces only water and heat as byproducts.

4. What are the benefits of using methane in a H2 fuel cell?

There are several benefits of using methane in a H2 fuel cell. First, methane is a readily available and low-cost fuel source. It also produces fewer emissions and pollutants compared to traditional fossil fuels. Additionally, the byproducts of the reaction are only water and heat, making it a clean and efficient energy source.

5. Are there any challenges in using methane for H2 fuel cells?

One of the main challenges in using methane for H2 fuel cells is the need for a reformer to convert the methane into hydrogen gas. This adds complexity and cost to the process. Additionally, methane is a potent greenhouse gas, so proper handling and disposal of any unused methane is necessary to prevent further environmental impact.

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