Effect of start-stop cycle on Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell for transportation purpose

Abstract

Energy has become fundamental human needs throughout the world. One form of renewable energy as an alternative fuel is hydrogen fuel cell. Fuel cell is an electrochemical device that can convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy and heat with high efficiency and a low negative impact on the environment. Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell (DEFC) is one type of fuel cell that can utilize ethanol derived from biomass. Studies have shown that addition of sodium hydroxide is able to improve the performance of DEFC. However, the effect of pH in the fuel cell has not been studied. In addition, application of DEFC always works with start and stop cycle, which may affect its durability. This study focused on the endurance test of DEFC fueled with synthetic bioethanol influenced by start-stop cycles in various pH (6–8). Constant load of 1 and 2 mA/cm2 were given. The performance of DEFC was analyzed using electrochemical characterization methods, such as the Open Circuit Potential and Potentiodynamic. Physical characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The Results shown ethanol variation pH 8 produce best power density than the others after repeated cycles on a certain constant load. The addition of sodium hydroxide push electro-oxidation reaction perfectly takes place. Degradation phenomenon occurred particularly detachment catalyst that affected performance of DEFC.