Fuel Cell : Efficient Energy Conversion

Oxidation reactions corresponding to combustion of fuels in air or oxygen-can be carried out electrochemically in a fuel cell. As this process bypasses the limit imposed by Camot efficiency, economic utilisation of the ensuing chemical energy is possible through adoption of this technology. The operating and maintenance cost of a fuel cell is low. Factors of inefficiencies, manifested in the form of overpotentials could largely be overcome through suitable electrode design, proper selection of catalyst, and development of low-resistance electrolyte. In the long run, the fuel cells are prospective to generate power at a cheaper rate, sort out the problems of biomass disposal and alleviate the environmental hazards.