TWI Frequently asked questions

What types of fuel cell are there?

by Caroline Williams

Various types of fuel cell have been developed, differing mainly in the electrolyte used between the anode and the cathode.

Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells are currently receiving considerable attention as they are the most promising type for transport applications such as cars and buses. They make it possible to combine the anode, cathode and membrane electrolyte in a compact unit known as the 'membrane electrolyte assembly'. Systems up to 500kW are readily available on the market.

Alkaline fuel cells were the first type to be used, although only in specialised applications such as space travel (e.g. Apollo and Space Shuttle missions). This is because this type of fuel cell reacts easily with carbon dioxide in the air or in hydrogen produced from liquid fuels. However, they have a possible use in land vehicles and submarines.

Phosphoric acid fuel cells operate at relatively high temperatures (220°C) and achieve moderate current densities. This type are most suited to medium-scale, combined heat and power (CHP) plants. Units of up to 200kW are in commercial production by IFC Corp in the USA.

Fuel cells based on solid oxide and molten carbonates operate at high temperatures (500-1000°C) and are most suitable for land-based power generation. Solid oxide fuel cells are still in the development phase but, potentially, have a wide range of industrial applications, including CHP systems of all sizes from 2kW to multi-MW. Molten carbonate fuel cells are mainly used in medium to large-scale CHP systems, and 1-2MW trial plants are being built at present.

Direct methanol fuel cells are a relatively new member of the fuel cell family. These cells are similar to the proton exchange membrane cells in that they both use a polymer membrane as the electrolyte. However, in the direct methanol fuel cell, the anode catalyst itself draws the hydrogen from the liquid methanol, eliminating the need for a fuel reformer*.

* A fuel reformer produces hydrogen from the base fuel.

Further information

FAQ: What is a fuel cell?
FAQ: How does a fuel cell work?
FAQ: How do I make a fuel cell stack?