Fuel Cell with unpressurised Hydrogen and Oxygen

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of creating a fuel cell using unpressurized hydrogen from a balloon and oxygen from the surrounding air. Participants explore the practicality of this setup in a DIY context, including considerations for efficiency and energy output.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of generating energy from a balloon of hydrogen and surrounding air, questioning the practicality and efficiency of such a setup in a DIY environment.
  • Another participant suggests that it is indeed possible to create a fuel cell with this configuration, mentioning that pressure should not pose a problem, but notes the low energy storage density of hydrogen at air pressure.
  • A different participant seeks guidance on conducting the experiment in a DIY lab, asking for relevant equations to estimate the expected power output.
  • One participant recommends searching for books on fuel cells available online, implying that these resources could provide useful information for the experiment.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of certainty about the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed fuel cell setup, with some acknowledging challenges related to energy density. The discussion remains unresolved regarding specific methodologies and expected outcomes.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not specify assumptions regarding the design of the fuel cell or the conditions under which the experiment would be conducted, leaving some details open to interpretation.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY energy projects, fuel cell technology, and experimental physics may find this discussion relevant.

ANarwhal
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Let's say I have a balloon full of Hydrogen that is STP, and outside this balloon I have normal air (containing oxygen) which is also STP. Is there a way to produce energy by turning these 2 items into a fuel cell, if so how practical is it (in a DIY setting) and is there anything that would make it more efficient (such as pressurising the hydrogen)?
 
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It is possible and pressure should not be a problem. Just keep in mind that the energy storage density is quite low with hydrogen at air pressure.
 
How could I perform this experiment in a DIY lab? Are there any equations that I can use to predict how much power I should be getting?
 
I searched amazon.com for "Fuel Cell" and got plenty of hits for books dedicated to fuel cells. One of these should suite you.
 

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