Abstract
The Voltaic pile, invented here on Lake Como 200 years ago, was a crucial step in the development of electrical engineering. For the first time a controlled and reliable source of electric current was available. The science of electrochemistry developed rapidly and is now a key contributor, not just to energy technology but also, for example, to metallurgy and industrial processes. The basic concepts of electrochemistry are presented, with the practical examples of its application in fuel cells, and with the perspective of the history of the subject.
Highlights
Introduction Prior to AlessandoVolta and the invention of the Voltaic pile here in Italy in the city of Como in 1799, “electricity” implied static electricity
There were the experiments of Benjamin Franklin on lightning, and high voltage sources such as the Wimhurst machine which was based on charge generation by friction
7. – Conclusion This review has focussed on fuel cells as an example of an electrochemical-energy production process, presenting it in its historical context and taking into account the recent emphasis on research and development of energy conversion systems
Summary
Introduction Prior to AlessandoVolta (fig. 1) and the invention of the Voltaic pile here in Italy in the city of Como in 1799, “electricity” implied static electricity. The reverse reaction, recombination of hydrogen and oxygen in a fuel cell to generate electricity came about 1839 through the collaboration of Christian Schonbein and William Grove On the contrary, when the reverse process occurs in a battery such as Volta’s or fuel cell like Grove’s, there is an oxidation reaction taking up electrons at the anode, which is at a potential negative with respect to the cathode.
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