Conventional and fuel cells. Differences and operation

Conventional cells and fuel cells

Conventional batteries, or electric cells, and fuel cells are two technologies that allow electricity to be generated from chemical processes. While they have some similarities, they also have important differences in their operation, applications and advantages. Each has its own advantages and challenges, and their use is determined by the specific application. In general, electric cells are more common in portable and electronic applications, while fuel cells are more suitable for power generation and long-distance transportation systems.

Conventional or electric cells

Conventional cells or electric cells, also known as batteries, are devices that convert the chemical energy stored inside them into electrical energy. They consist of two electrodes, one positive and one negative, and an electrolyte. When the electrodes are connected to an electrical circuit, electrons flow from the negative to the positive electrode through the circuit, generating electricity. Electric batteries are very common in electronic devices such as cell phones, laptops and cameras.

Fuel cell

Fuel cells, on the other hand, convert the chemical energy of a reaction between a fuel and an oxidant into electrical energy. Fuel cells consist of two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, separated by an electrolyte. The fuel, which can be hydrogen, methane or even alcohol, is fed to the anode and the oxidant, usually oxygen from the air, is fed to the cathode. The chemical reaction between the fuel and oxidant produces electrons that flow from the anode to the cathode through an electrical circuit, generating electricity and water as a by-product.

Comparison between battery types

Fuel cells have some advantages over electric cells, such as higher efficiency and lower pollutant emissions. In addition, they can be powered by a wide variety of fuels, such as hydrogen, methane, ethanol, natural gas and biofuels. This gives them great versatility in terms of their use, from portable applications to power generation systems in large facilities.

However, fuel cells also present some challenges. Although they are more efficient than electric cells, their production cost is still high. In addition, they require fuel storage and supply systems, which can be complicated and expensive. Moreover, the production of hydrogen, one of the most common fuels for fuel cells, still relies heavily on fossil fuels, which limits its use as a renewable energy source.