How do fuel cells work?
What is a fuel cell?
Fuel cells are systems which can produce electricity due to the conversion of electrochemical energy into electrical energy. In comparison to batteries which can store electrical power chemically for a certain time in closed systems, fuel cells convert energy chemically and thus produce electrical energy in an open system. Theoretically, a fuel cell can produce electricity as long as it is supplied with fuel.
How does it work?
The two main types are hydrogen fuel cells and direct methanol fuel cells. EFOY fuel cells use direct methanol fuel cell technology because methanol is safer and more affordable than pure hydrogen. To operate the fuel cell a mixture of methanol and water is introduced to the anode side. Ambient air is pumped into the fuel cell on the cathode side. An electrical circuit connects the anode and the cathode sides. Upon contact with the platinum catalyst, methanol releases its electrons which flow in the direction of the cathode. At the same time, protons are released and these penetrate the membrane to the cathode. There, oxygen reacts with the proton and electrons to form pure water. During the chemical process, the fuel cell heats up to about 40° C, releasing water as vapour and carbon dioxide in low quantities.
