Fuel Cells

One of the most common types of fuel cells is the hydrogen proton exchange membrane. Proton Exchange membranes derive electrical energy from a controlled explosion of hydrogen combining with oxygen to create water. The heart of the proton exchange membrane is the polymer membrane that separates the hydrogen and oxygen sides of the fuel cell. One of the first applications of fuel cells was implemented in NASA satellites. Because the byproduct of hydrogen fuel cells is water, the technology holds great promise as a more ecologically friendly alternative to fossil fuel (gasoline) internal combustion engines.

Potentially useful links:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_cell
• http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/animfuelcell.htm
• http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/fuelcell.shtml