SUMMARY
The open cell voltage (OCV) for an H2/O2 fuel cell operating at 1 atm and 100°C can be calculated using the Nernst equation. The equation is E = Eo + (RT/nF) * ln[(PH2 * PO2^1/2) / PH2O], where Eo is 1.17V, R is 8.314 J/mol-K, T is 373K, n is 2, and F is 96486 C/e-. The partial pressures for hydrogen (PH2), oxygen (PO2), and water (PH2O) must be defined accurately, with water's activity set to 1. The ambiguity in the operating conditions requires clarification on the partial pressures of the gases involved.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of the Nernst equation
- Knowledge of thermodynamics, specifically gas laws
- Familiarity with electrochemistry concepts
- Basic skills in manipulating logarithmic equations
NEXT STEPS
- Research the Nernst equation applications in electrochemistry
- Study the effects of temperature and pressure on fuel cell performance
- Learn about the significance of partial pressures in gas reactions
- Explore common conventions in fuel cell terminology and calculations
USEFUL FOR
Students studying electrochemistry, researchers in fuel cell technology, and engineers working on hydrogen fuel systems will benefit from this discussion.