Kütuserakendid

Kütuserakendid, also known as fuel cells, are electrochemical devices that convert the chemical energy of a fuel and an oxidant into electricity through a chemical reaction. Unlike batteries, fuel cells do not store energy; they produce energy as long as fuel and oxidant are supplied. The most common fuel is hydrogen, and the most common oxidant is oxygen from the air.

The basic principle of operation involves separating the fuel into ions and electrons. The fuel, such as hydrogen, is fed to the anode, where it is oxidized and releases electrons and protons. The electrons travel through an external circuit, generating an electric current. The protons migrate through an electrolyte to the cathode. At the cathode, the oxidant, usually oxygen, reacts with the protons and electrons to form water, which is often the only byproduct.

There are various types of fuel cells, classified by their electrolyte and operating temperature, including Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells, Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs), Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFCs), and Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFCs). Each type has different strengths and weaknesses regarding efficiency, cost, and applications.

Fuel cells offer several advantages, such as high efficiency, low or zero emissions (depending on the fuel), and quiet operation. They have potential applications in transportation, stationary power generation, and portable electronics. However, challenges remain, including the cost of fuel cell components, hydrogen storage, and infrastructure development.