Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

04-03-2025

05:30 AM

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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.

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