Advanced fundamentals and thermodynamics of electrochemical devices

Abstract

This chapter describes the theoretical aspects and main characteristics of fuel cells and electrolyzers, a technological field in constant evolution. Hydrogen can be produced through the electrolysis of water to be stored and subsequently supplied to a fuel cell to obtain electrical energy and water as products. The biggest obstacle for these devices is their cost since they are not yet able to compete economically with more traditional energy technologies. The progress of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell and PEM electrolyzers is complex and requires significant research on the materials of electrodes (specifically on those were take place the oxygen reduction reaction and the oxygen evolution reaction) membranes and the overall components of both cells. Nevertheless, the development and commercialization of this equipment at market price would give a huge boost to hydrogen systems. Great technical advances have been achieved due to the great effort of researchers in the need to reduce the load of catalysts, enhance the catalytic performance, and improve their components to reduce their cost and increase their efficiency and durability.