FUEL CELL

Like batteries, fuel cells function but do not need to be recharged or run down. They generate heat and electricity as long as fuel is available. Two electrodes—a negative electrode (also known as the anode) and a positive electrode (also known as the cathode)—sandwiched around an electrolyte make up a fuel cell. The anode receives a fuel, such as hydrogen, while the cathode receives air. A catalyst divides hydrogen atoms into protons and electrons in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell, which travel in different directions to the cathode. An external circuit is traversed by the electrons, causing an electricity flow. When the protons reach the cathode through the electrolyte, they reunite with the electrons and oxygen to create heat and water.

PEM Fuel Cells, use a proton-conducting polymer membrane as the electrolyte. Hydrogen is typically used as the fuel. These cells operate at relatively low temperatures and can quickly vary their output to meet shifting power demands. PEM fuel cells are the best candidates for powering automobiles.

BATTERY

All-solid-state batteries promise greater energy storage density, increased reliability and wear resistance, fast charging, and, most importantly, improved operational safety. Liquid electrolytes become volatile and combustible at high temperatures. However, the risk of fire or explosion is reduced by the excellent thermal stability of solid electrolytes.

Due to their small size, solid-state batteries have a higher energy density per unit area. In comparison to a lithium-ion battery of the same size, the energy density of a solid-state battery can be up to ten times higher.

High-density solid-state batteries can reach 10,000 cycles, whereas modern lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles typically last between 2,000 and 3,000 cycles before degrading noticeably.