Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell Systems are being developed and manufactured by a Number of Companies Worldwide. Opportunities to form partnerships with companies developing phosphoric acid fuel cell technology can be Accessed Here.
Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells have a liquid phosphoric acid electrolyte, are suited for medium to large-scale stationary combined heat & power, and require hydrogen as a fuel. This hydrogen is usually generated by reforming light hydrocarbon fuels such as natural gas.
Characteristics of Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells include:
Required Fuel: Hydrogen (often derived from reformed natural gas or biogas)
Operating Temperature: 150șC to 220șC.
Efficiency: 37% - 42% electrical efficiency, 85% with cogeneration (combined heat & power)
Applications: Stationary Combined Heat & Power
Commercial viability: Phosphoric acid fuel cells are the most mature fuel cell technology, with approximately 75MW installed and currently operating.
Additional Information: Whilst still requiring hydrogen, PAFC technology has the additional benefit in that is it more tolerant to impurities, in particular reformed hydrocarbon fuels.
Chemical Equations:
Anode Reaction: 2 H2 »» 4 H+ + 4 e-
Cathode Reaction: O2(g) + 4 H+ + 4 e- »» 2 H2O
Overall Cell Reaction: 2 H2 + O2 »» 2 H2O
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