Fuel cells future challenges

Abstract Radiation-induced graft copolymerization is an attractive technique to prepare alternative proton conducting membranes (PCMs) for fuel cell applications. The purpose of this chapter is to review the latest progress made in the development of various radiation-grafted PCMs for fuel cells. The challenges facing the development of these membranes and their expected future research directions are also discussed. 

Fuel cells are overdue in becoming a major part of our energy future. Then, one in three or even one in two of the cars on the road may be fuel cell vehicles. There are obstacles and challenges to that happening, but... 

Fuel cells could become a major player in our energy future. In order to see more cars on the road that are fuel cell vehicles, many obstacles and challenges will have to be overcome, but there does not seem to be anything that is insurmountable. The cost of specialized materials is dropping and higher-volume manufacturing will bring production costs down. 

Canadian interests span into hydrogen production, delivery and utilization, primarily in fuel cell applications in transportation, stationary and portable systems. Furthermore, codes and standards for hydrogen systems are an important area of activity. The range of future electrical requirements for early adopters, such as the military, is very wide with numerous applications for various electrically powered systems. The introduction of hydrogen as an energy carrier into the commercial and military sector offer similar and sometimes unique challenges in all the areas discussed. 

Smith B, Sridhar S, Khan A, (2005). Solid polymer electrolyte membranes for fuel cell applications-a review. Journal of Membrane Science 259 10-26 Sopian K, Wan Daud W, (2006). Challenges and future developments in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Renewable Energy 31 719-727 Srinivasan S, (2006). Fuel cells From fundamentals to applications. Springer Science and Business Media LLC, New York... 

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