Fuel cell technology Direct conversion

The scope of this chapter is to present a concise and fundamental overview of the relationship between modem catalysis and chemical reaction engineering through one of the topics that will certainly be present among the future directions in both fields production of hydrogen fuel from fossil and renewable energy sources and its use in the fuel cells-based energy conversion technology. 

Fuel-cell technology allows the direct conversion of chemical energy into electricity [7]. The fuel cell is an electrochemical reactor where the catalyst systems are an important component. Among the wide-ranging applications of fuel cells are low-emission transport systems, stationary power stations, and combined heat and power sources. The classical studies were carried out in the early 1900s, and major innovations and improvements have been achieved over the last few years. The first new electric cars are expected to roll onto the market around the year 2005, but... 

McElroy, J.F., (General Electric Company), Status of Solid Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Technology, G.E. Direct Energy Conversion Program, Rep. (undated). 

In principle biomass is a useful fuel for fuel cells many of the technologies discussed above for using biomass as a fuel produce either methane or hydrogen directly and as highlighted below synthesis gas production from biomass for conversion to methanol is an attractive option. Cellulose-based material may be converted to a mixture of hydrogen (70% hydrogen content recovered), CO2 and methane by high-temperature treatment with a nickel catalyst. 

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