Nuts and Volts - May 2010

minimum voltage where electrolysis begins.

Figure 16 illustrates that our minimum voltage is 1.47 volts where a minimum current of 24 milliamps is flowing. More voltage will result in a lower internal resistance that allows for more current to flow as shown in Figure 17.

Figure 17. Adding

More Voltage For Greater Electrolysis.

Summary

to computer and communications technologies in that short amount of time. We shall see. In the meantime conserve energy and “stay green.” NV

In this first article, you were introduced to some of the fuel cell’s basic operational characteristics like the dual modes of operation and minimum water decomposition voltage. Future articles will address more of its inner workings, as well as applications for portable electronics and for powering vehicles. If recent history is any guide, the fuel cell will most likely gain greater prominence in the coming years. For example, the first decade of the 21st century lead the way to the expansion of the Internet and the “always connected generation” with Internet-enabled portable computers and cell phones.

The second decade will most likely lead to independent, portable power sources that run off grid and produce little or no pollution — plus be economically competitive and ready to use 24/7. Fuel cells will be a big part of this. If that sounds impractical or a bit too optimistic, then just look back 10 years to see what’s happened

Credits: Unless otherwise noted, photo and other image credits used in this article go to Wikipedia, Fuel Cell Store, and Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies.

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