Fundamentals and Applications of Hydrogen and Fuel Cells

This chapter presents information on hydrogen as an energy carrier, its properties, how to produce and store it, how to transport it, as well as its role in future energy systems. Opportunities and concerns about hydrogen are discussed. The basic principles and analysis of the key transport phenomena, bottlenecks, and applications of fuel cells are discussed. Most attention is paid to so-called PEMFCs (proton-exchange membrane fuel cells) for low-temperature applications and SOFCs (solid-oxide fuel cells) for high-temperature applications. The major differences between these two types of fuel cells are discussed, and research needs and limitations are presented. Modeling issues and engineering design are also highlighted.