Classification and Types of Fuel Cell

A number of different fuel cells have been developed and are in use. They are generally classified or characterized primarily by the type of electrolyte used, the type of ion transferred, and the range of applicable temperature level. Table 1.2 shows a list of the most commonly used fuel cells along with the type of electrolyte used, migrating ions, operating temperature ranges, and type of fuel used (Breiter, 1969 Larminie and Dicks, 2003 O Hayre et al, 2006 Xianguo, 2006). 

Since the type of electrolyte material dictates operating principles and characteristics of a fuel cell, a fuel cell is generally named after the type of electrolyte used. For example, an alkaline fuel cell (AFC) uses an alkaline solution such as potassium hydroxide (KOH) in water, an acid fuel cell such as phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) uses phosphoric acid as electrolyte, a solid polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) or proton exchange membrane fuel cell uses proton-conducting solid polymer electrolyte membrane, a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) uses molten lithium or potassium carbonate as electrolyte, and a solid oxide ion-conducting fuel cell (SOFC) uses ceramic electrolyte membrane. 

List of Fuel Cells Classified Based on Electrolytes, Ions, and Temperature Range 

Fuel Cell Type Charge Carrier Electrolyte Type Typical Operating Temperature (°C) Fuel and Oxidant 

MCFC co - Lithium or potassium carbonate 600-700 H2,C0,CH4, and other hydrocarbons 

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