Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Latest News

Recently, the Centre for Fuel Cell Technology (CFCT) at the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials showcased a mobile Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell (PEMFC)-based backup power solution for telecom towers using a plug-and-play model.

About Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

• It is an electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen into electricity through a series of redox reactions.
• Unlike traditional batteries, which store chemical energy internally, PEM fuel cells require a continuous supply of hydrogen fuel and oxygen (typically from the air) to sustain the chemical reaction and generate electricity. 
• Working Principle: The working principle involves an electrochemical reaction where hydrogen gas is fed into the anode, oxidized to release protons, which then travel through a polymer membrane to the cathode, where they react with oxygen to produce electricity and water.
• They offer an environmentally friendly solution with high power density in a compact size.
• They run on hydrogen fuel, which can be stored and transported for refuelling, and require significantly less maintenance than traditional backup power sources.

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Applications of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

• It is an efficient and clean energy solution for powering telecom towers, particularly as a backup during grid outages.
• These fuel cells provide reliable electricity with quick start-up times and operate at relatively low temperatures, making them a viable alternative to diesel generators.
• An innovative hydrogen fuel cell-based backup power solution for telecom towers, developed using a plug-and-play model can support national renewable energy goals while ensuring seamless connectivity for millions and promoting clean energy in the telecom sector.
• Portable power: specific applications include laptops, mobile phones, battery chargers and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell FAQs

Q1. What are the applications of PEMFC fuel cells?

Ans. Portable power: specific applications include laptops, mobile phones, battery chargers and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Q2. What is the mechanism of the proton exchange membrane?

Ans. A proton-exchange membrane (PEM) is a polymeric semipermeable membrane that can conduct or transfer cations (protons), at the same time keeping the reactant separate.

Q3. What is an example of a proton exchange membrane?

Ans. One of the most common and commercially available PEM materials is the fluoropolymer (PFSA) Nafion

Source: PIB