A fuel cell is an electrochemical energy conversion device for electricity generation using hydrogen fuel. The principal characteristic of a fuel cell is that it can convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy with higher efficiencies than conventional mechanical systems. The emission of fuel cells using hydrogen as a fuel is only water vapour. Fuel cells are currently under development for both stationary and mobile applications in response to the need for sustainable energy technology. This paper reviews current status of fuel cell technologies, compares different types of fuel cells. The potential applications of fuel cells are discussed.
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