Question

Describe the limitations of fuel cells.

Answer 1

Although the reality is that fuel cells are better than conventional cells, there are certain real-world challenges with their design and application as an electrical energy source. Here are a few of these.

1. It is difficult to handle gaseous fuels. Fuel gases, including H₂, O₂, and others, must be kept in specially made cylinders as liquids at extremely low temperatures and high pressures. This raises the cells price and presents a number of practical difficulties.
2. Pt, Pd, Ag, and other catalysts required for electrode reactions are highly costly and raise the cell’s cost.
3. Fuel cell electrolytes are extremely caustic and cause a number of real-world issues.