PAFC

PAFC is an acronym with several uses in different fields. The two most common meanings are Phosphoric acid fuel cell, a type of electrochemical power generator, and Plymouth Argyle Football Club, an English professional football team based in Plymouth. Other uses exist in various organizations, but these two are the best known in technical and sports contexts.

Phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) is a stationary fuel cell technology that uses liquid phosphoric acid as its electrolyte, typically absorbed in a ceramic or silicon carbide matrix. It operates at relatively high temperatures, generally around 150 to 200 degrees Celsius, which allows for efficient catalytic reactions and tolerance to fuel contaminants. PAFC systems usually run on hydrogen or hydrogen-rich reformate and can also utilize natural gas after internal reforming. They are commonly deployed for on-site power generation and cogeneration, where heat is captured for additional energy use. Electrical efficiencies commonly fall around the 40 to 50 percent range, with total system efficiency increased when waste heat is recovered. PAFC technology benefited from early commercial development in the late 20th century and has been used in various utility-scale and commercial applications, although it has faced competition from other fuel cell types and energy technologies in recent years.

Plymouth Argyle Football Club, known as Plymouth Argyle or PAFC, is a professional football club based in Plymouth, Devon, England. Founded in 1886, the club plays its home matches at Home Park and is nicknamed the Pilgrims. The team competes in the English football league system and has a long-standing presence in the lower to middle tiers, with achievements that include promotions and cup runs.