Application of fuel cells in transportation

Abstract

Fuel cells are electrochemical devices capable of converting the chemical energy stored in the fuel into electricity, with the only waste being heat and water vapor. For this reason, in recent times, they have been of great interest in decarbonization and specifically in the decarbonization of the transport sector. In this chapter, different existing fuel cell technologies and their specific characteristics for application to the transport sector will be discussed. On the other hand, a review will be made of recent advances in the application of fuel cells at all sector, including road, rail, aviation and maritime transport. It will be possible to conclude which fuel cell technology is the most suitable for each one according to its characteristics. With regard to the state of implementation, it can be seen that the most advanced sector is road transport, where commercial models are already available to the end user. However, the higher initial investment and a lack of infrastructure are a barrier to the diffusion of the technology. On the other hand, the sector that is furthest behind in the implementation of fuel cells is the aviation sector. This is partly due to their high power-to-weight ratio demands and their development and certification times, which are longer in the aeronautical industry. However, although there are already models on the market, further research is required for the technology to be truly competitive with fossil fuel-based transport, such as the power-to-weight ratio and the useful life of fuel cells.