ABSTRACT
A fuel cell is an electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy of a fuel and oxidant directly
into electric energy. Such a direct one-step conversion avoids the inefficient multistep processes
involved in heat engines via combustion, thus eliminating the emission of chemical pollutants.
Besides being efficient and clean, fuel cells are also compatible with renewable energy sources and
carriers for sustainable development and energy security. Fuel cells offer additional advantages for
both mobile and stationary applications, including quiet operation without vibration and noise; they
are therefore candidates for onsite applications. Their inherent modularity allows for simple
construction and operation with possible applications for dispersed, distributed, and portable
power generation. Their fast response to changing load conditions while maintaining high efficiency
makes them ideally suited to load-following applications. Their potential high efficiency also
represents less chemical, thermal, and carbon dioxide emissions for the same amount of energy
conversion and power generation. Consequently, fuel cells are often regarded as one of the advanced
energy technologies of the future.
