ABSTRACT
This chapter gives comprehensive reviews of the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The PEM fuel cell is a conversion device that converts the chemical energy of the fuel into electrical energy and produces water as a by-product. PEM fuel is the most promising power source for transportation and portable and stationary applications. Due to the features of PEM fuel cell, such as low operating temperature, quick start-up time, high-power density, and zero emissions, it makes a good choice for transportation applications. The battery and internal combustion engines are two competing technologies of the fuel cell. The PEM fuel cell mainly consists of a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) and bipolar plates, which have been explained in detail. Further discussed is the thermodynamics of the fuel cell and how the performance of the fuel cell is influenced by the operating condition. The PEM fuel cell has a wide range of applications, such as fuel-cell-based cars and buses, trains and forklifts, portable military equipment, and portable personal electronics.
