In the field of space research, a recent development put India on the maps. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) accomplished an advanced experiment by testing a 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) powered system on the orbital platform, POEM3.
Technology and Efficiency
The test was centered around the PEMFC technology, which has the ability to transform hydrogen and oxygen into multiple elements including electricity, water, and heat. Compared to conventional power sources utilized in space, PEMFC has its own set of unique benefits.
One of them is high efficiency. Unlike batteries, PEMFCs have the capability to convert fuel directly into electrical energy which denotes a much higher efficiency.
Eco-Friendly Operation
Another significant advantage of PEMFCs is their clean operation. They generate only water as a byproduct hence making it unnecessary for complex waste management systems. The water that PEMFCs produce could be used in two ways, either for onboard consumption or for creating more oxygen via electrolysis.
The PEMFC technology was tested on the orbital platform named POEM3 which was launched on January 1, 2024, using PSLV-C58. POEM3 serves as an ideal hub for testing contemporary technologies in space under real-world conditions.
Implications for Upcoming Space Missions
The implications of the successful test run of PEMFC are vast and visionary. These fuel cells with their high efficiency and water production capabilities are perfect for powering the proposed Indian space station. Furthermore, they provide a reliable and sustainable power source for long-duration missions to deep space destinations, such as Mars.
Alongside PEMFCs, ISRO has also qualified 10 Ah Silicon–Graphite anode based high energy density Li-ion cells. These are considered a low weight and cost-effective alternative to presently used cells.
Understanding Fuel Cells
A fuel cell represents an electrochemical device that transforms the chemical energy of a fuel, such as hydrogen, and an oxidant, like oxygen, directly into electricity. Unlike batteries, which store chemical energy that later gets converted into electrical energy, fuel cells continuously generate electricity as long as they are supplied with fuel and oxidant.
Different Types of Fuel Cells
There are several types of fuel cells. Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells use a thin, solid polymer membrane as the electrolyte, and they are ideal for portable applications. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) operate at high temperatures using a ceramic electrolyte. They are more efficient than PEMFCs but also more costly and complicated. Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFCs), on the other hand, use a liquid electrolyte made of potassium hydroxide (KOH). They may not be as efficient as PEMFCs and SOFCs, but they are cheaper and can tolerate impurities in the fuel.
Potential Applications of Fuel Cells
Fuel cells have multiple applications. They can potentially power electric vehicles, boats, and even airplanes. Moreover, they are beneficial in space missions by providing electrical power to spacecraft, and offering a dependable energy source for prolonged missions. Fuel cells are also highly efficient with zero emissions, making them ideal for space expeditions. Additionally, they can be used to power laptop computers, mobile phones and other portable devices. In the larger scale, they can energize homes, businesses, and even entire cities.
