Hydrogen Fuel Cell Implementation for the Transportation Sector

Abstract

Global transportation possesses have compelling rationales for reducing the consumption of oil, emissions of carbon dioxide, and noise pollution. Transitions to alternative transportation technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) have gained increased attention from the automotive industries. A fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) occupying a hydrogen engine is one of the most stupendous technologies, since it is suitable for a large-scale transportation. However, its performance limitations are in question due to voltage degradation in long term operations through steady conditions under constant load and dynamic working conditions. Other drawbacks of using fuel cells in EVs are energy balances and management issues necessary for vehicle power and energy requirements. An efficient solution to accommodate driving behavior like dynamic loads comprises of hybridizing PEMFCs with energy storage devices like supercapacitors and batteries. This opening chapter reviews the projected gist of FCEV status; considers the factors that are going to affect how FCEVs could enter commercialization, including the importance of fuel cells for EV technologies; the degradation diagnoses using accelerated stress test (AST) procedures; FCEV hybridization; and the contribution of an energy storage device for charging EVs. The article also addresses case studies relating to material degradation occurring from driving behavior. Information about material degradation can be compiled into a database for the improvement of cell component performance and durability, leading to the creation of new materials and new fuel cell hybridization designs. To support the growth of EV technologies, an energy storage is required for the integrated alternative electricity generations. A redox flow battery is considered as a promising candidate in terms of attractive charging station for EVs or HEVs.