Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp.

185–194, 2020 185

Research Article

A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells

Fiseha M. Guangul*
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Middle East College, Muscat, Oman

Girma T. Chala
International College of Engineering and Management, Muscat, Oman

* Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected] DOI: 10.14416/j.asep.2020.04.007

Received: 24 January 2020; Revised: 1 April 2020; Accepted: 15 April 2020; Published online: 29 April 2020
© 2020 King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok. All Rights Reserved.

Abstract
In the new era with advanced technologies, fuel cell has been widely used as source of power both for portable
and stationary applications. The application has become more popular nowadays as it is an eco-friendly device
and has no noise due to absence of rotating components. Fuel cells are designed with high efficiency compared to
conventional energy sources. However, the benefits have come with weaknesses and threats that might deter its
prevalent application. This paper is, therefore, aimed at comparing the seven mainly used fuel cells. The SWOT
analysis of the fuel cells are also presented separately, and the pros and cons of each cell were summarized.

Keywords: Fuel cell, SWOT analysis, Hydrogen, Chemical energy, Electrical energy

1 Introduction Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC), and Solid Oxide Fuel

Cell (SOFC). These seven types of fuel cells have
A fuel cell is an electrochemical device that produces slight differences in their working principles. This
electricity by transforming chemical energy into paper presents comparison between the seven types of
electrical energy without any combustion cycle [1]. fuel cells through SWOT analysis as a method. This
The fuel cell converts hydrogen and oxygen into would help understand the differences among each
electrical energy and heat [1]. Therefore, the hydrogen other to promote a higher renewable energy utilization
gas could act as the fuel and the oxygen can be utilized in the future.
as the oxidizer. Materials such as potassium, sodium
hydroxide, to mention few, can be used as electrolyte. 2 Strength
Several types of non-precious metals can also be
utilized as a catalyst for the anode and cathode to 2.1 Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC)
accelerate the reactions and produce electricity.
A fuel cell generates direct current electricity that Methanol as a liquid fuel is denser and contains higher
can be used in application such as lighting using light energy density compared to hydrogen gas, and it can
bulb or functioning as an electric engine [2]. There are be stored at ambient conditions. Hydrogen is preferred
mainly seven types of fuel cells: Direct Methanol Fuel due to its high gravimetric energy; however, DMFC
Cell (DMFC), Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel contains smaller flammability and is safe to use [3].
Cell (PEMFC), Reversible Fuel Cell (RFC), Alkaline Sajgure et al. concluded that DMFC is considered
Fuel Cell (AFC), Phosphoric Fuel Cell (PFC), Molten as environment friendly technology, as it doesn’t

Please cite this article as: F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A comparative study between the seven types of
fuel cells,” Applied Science and Engineering Progress, vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 185–194, Jul.–Sep. 2020.
186 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020

produce any toxic byproducts. However, they are not

considered as emission-free since the carbon dioxide
which is green-house gas would still be produced
during operation [4]. Furthermore, due to its lower
density, the design of DMFC is comparatively compact
making the size small and light weight. Therefore, they
can easily be transported from one place to another,
reducing the expenses in the meanwhile. Moreover,
it is simple and able to recharge instantaneously with
long life designed [5].

2.2 Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell

(PEMFC)

The Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC)

has the highest demand among all the fuel cells since
it has a lot of advantages such as high-power density,
small footprint, fast start-up and shutdown, and quiet Figure 1: Hydrogen storage tank [9].
operation. It also operates at relatively low temperature,
around 80°C, which allows them to start quickly and technology being developed by NASA and other such
results in less wear on system components along with laboratories [2].
better durability [2], [6].
Besides, it is designed for easier installation 2.4 Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC)
due to its simple working principle, and requires low
maintenance. PEMFC does not produce any noxious An alkaline environment can increase the efficiency
emission, and this is more efficient compared to the due to its capability to flow oxygen better as contrasted
heat engine. The performance of PEMFC can provide with acidic electrolytes when oxygen was engaged
clean, continuous power and light commercial with the electricity generation process. The alkaline
application [7]. PMEFC was observed providing high electrolyte is useful to perform better in the room
efficiency for vehicles with fuel cell powered and temperature to generate higher current densities with
low tail pipe emission. When applied to a vehicle, lesser voltage losses. Nevertheless, the initial cost to
the hydrogen fuel can provide the highest conversion produce AFC system is cheaper compared to the other
efficiency, and create Ultra Low Emission Vehicle cells as the cells and electrodes used are made from low
(ULEV) [8]. cost materials. Alkaline fuel cells have long lifetime
that may reach more than 15,000 h since the squanders
2.3 Reversible Fuel Cell (RFC) and electrodes can be removed easily with minimal
corrosion as the electrolyte is less corrosive. A catalyst
The reversible fuel cells were applied on the Solid is needed in the electrolyte to accelerate the concerned
Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system which uses the energy reactions to allow the alkaline fuel cell to work in peak
generated from solar or wind turbine to generate the efficiency. The cost effectiveness and reliability rely
hydrogen gas [7]. Consequently, they are compressed upon the quantity of alternate catalysts present for the
and stored within the tank as shown in Figure 1. AFC [10].
The stored hydrogen is used in the SOFC system
as a fuel for electricity generation whenever power 2.5 Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC)
is required. There is an output of 50 kW in fuel cell
mode within a 20 ft container but the output power is In the Asia and United State, Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell
predicted to be improved to around 200 kW to 250 kW (PAFC) had been proved to be used as robust on the
in the future [9]. This is a comparatively new fuel cell medium capacity stationary application within 100 to

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020 187

500 kW power generation. Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) 2.7 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC)
fuel cell can function at high temperature (up to 200°C)
without a problem as opposed to the PEMFC. This Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) are best suited for
feature reduces the sensitivity to carbon monoxide large-scale power plants that could generate electricity
poisoning and increases the reaction that takes place to supply for grid system or factories. SOFCs use a
in the electrode. As the operating temperature of the prefabricated hard, non-porous ceramic compound
system can be as high as 200°C, the waste heat can as the electrolyte, sandwich between electrodes.
be used for space heating, and many PAFC systems The electrolyte can be manufactured in variety of
are appropriate for combined heat and power plant geometries: tubular, plate or planar, corrugated plate,
facilities. etc. SOFCs operate at relatively high temperatures
PAFC can be operated by using air rather than around 1000°C, and are expected to be around 50–60%
pure oxygen. Although phosphoric acid is a poor efficient at converting fuel to electricity [2].
conductor the cell would not reduce electrochemically SOFC systems are known as a high-performance
during operation compared to other electrolytes system with low environmental pollution ratio among
[11]. Furthermore, PAFC usually operates at both other fuel cells. Since all the SOFC components are
atmospheric and high pressures which enables to solid, the problem of electrolytes loss and corrosion of
operate at increased overall efficiency. In a combined electrodes is not significant [12]. As the SOFCs cell
power and heat application system the overall operates at high temperature, the presence of impurities
efficiency can reach up to 87%. Besides, PAFC can be is not a big concern.
operated with a lifetime up to 40,000 h in a wide range The emission levels of SOFCs are negligible, and
of atmospheric conditions; with temperatures as low in addition the integration of the system with other
as –32°C and as high as 80℃ [11]. thermal systems was found suitable. Precious metals
are not required as a catalyst and hence the cost of
2.6 Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) constructing the cell would be reduced [13]. As these
cells are functioning at high temperature, conversion of
Currently molten carbonate fuel cells are being carbon monoxide and hydrogen is easier and internal
developed for various power plants in the area of reforming of gaseous fuel promotes rapid kinetics to
electricity generation, industrial applications and in produce high quality heat for energy conversion [14].
the military applications using natural gas and coal
as a fuel [2]. 3 Weakness
MCFC uses a ceramic matrix impregnated
with carbonate-salt as an electrolyte suspended in a 3.1 Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC)
porous, chemically inert ceramic lithium aluminum
oxide matrix. Its operating temperature is very high Methanol crossover (MCO) is one of technological
(450–650°C) in which precious metal catalysts are not challenges where it showed the unreacted methanol
required at the anode and cathode reducing the material located at anode catalyst layer is able to permeate
cost for construction. through the membrane to cathode. In DMFC system,
Their improved efficiency offers another reason the fuel diffuses through Nafion membrane [4]. MCO
for significant cost reductions over phosphoric acid reduces the overall cell voltage, fuel efficiency and
fuel cells (PAFCs) when the system is applied only oxygen consuming as the permeated methanol gas
for electricity generation. Besides, high temperature created mixed potential with oxidization in cathode.
operation facilitates the internal reforming process, With the effect of MCO, the cathode catalyst and
eliminating the need for an external reformer as used membrane could be degraded [15]. As a result, severe
in alkaline, phosphoric acid, and polymer electrolyte flooding would take place in the cathode with the
membrane fuel cells. In addition, MCFCs are not prone oxidation of permeated methanol. The water generated
to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide poisoning inside the cathode due to electrochemical reaction and
making them more attractive when gases produced oxidation of permeated methanol causes flooding.
from coal are used as a fuel [2]. Water crossover (WCO - large fraction of unused water

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
188 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020

from anode permeates to cathode) has significant is above 800°C, or else the carbon will be oxidized
influence on cathode flooding where it was used to (Table 1).
control the flooding [16].
On the other hand, the membrane would swell Table 1: Progress and problems in hydrogen storage
from absorbing water during fuel cell operation due method
to the delamination of electrode from the membrane. Type of
Progress Problems
This phenomenon is called interfacial degradation Storage
which could decrease the conductivity of electron and Compression Compress and store Achieving a high
proton and increase the over-potentials afterward. The hydrogen in a cylinder tensile strength, low
of pressure up to 20 density, non-reactive
degradation in catalyst layers called ruthenium MPa. with hydrogen &
crossover can diffuse through the membrane to cathode, non-diffusive storage
reducing anode kinetics of oxygen reduction reaction cylinder
and carbon monoxide (CO) resistance capacity [17]. Liquefaction A process enables to The process is intensive
store hydrogen in energy and time
liquid phase at –253°C. consuming.
3.2 Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell
(PEMFC) Physisorption Reversible hydrogen Dependent on
release upon physical absorbent geometry
absorption. and absorption
Water management is the most hindering issue on temperature.
the performance of PEMFC. The membrane requires Hydrides Make use of metal Dependent on the type
enough hydration level for conducting the proton for absorption of of metal properties.
efficiently. In contrast, an excessive liquid water hydrogen to form
hydrides.
floods the pores of the catalyst layer (CL) and the gas
diffusion layer (GDL) which result in resistance for
mass transportation. Hence, the water management Generally, the main challenges of hydrogen
requires a subtle equilibrium condition between storage are weight, volume, cost, codes, standards
membrane drying and liquid water flooding to for different applications. For instance, for on board
guarantee a high performance level and prevent fuel application of hydrogen in vehicles, the weight, volume
cell degradation [18]. and cost are very high that make the hydrogen fueled
Heat management is also considered as one of vehicles incompetent to the petrol or diesel fueled
the significant influences on the performance. Due to vehicles. The use of compressed hydrogen in a
the restriction of electrochemical kinetics of oxygen pressurized cylinder has also problem as the density
reduction, the additional losses could be enhanced in is low and at high pressure the cost is very high.
the fuel cell stack. Moreover, the ohmic resistance and Application of liquid hydrogen is acceptable if only
mass transport losses are able to deviate the operating the cost unit is comparable with gasoline. However,
voltage from the theoretical cell voltage. All these the inevitable boiling off liquid remains as a concern
losses are acting as heat release to the surrounding [19]. in the application [20].

3.3 Reversible Fuel Cell (RFC) 3.4 Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC)

Hydrogen storage is a significant issue because of AFC system is vulnerable to be affected by carbon
the gas state characteristic. The gas is required to dioxide. Little amount of CO2 in the air can affect the
be stored in a chamber tank to prevent any reaction cell operation adversely. Hence, purifying of hydrogen
with the surrounding. Abdalla et al. discussed that and oxygen that are used in the fuel cell makes
the material used for hydrogen storage must not have AFC costlier. CO2 can combine with KOH to form
chemical reaction with hydrogen and other materials. potassium carbonate which increases the resistance.
They mentioned that the reversibility of the uptake and Susceptibility to poisoning of AFC by CO 2 also
release of the gas is the key to store hydrogen since affects the cell’s lifetime (the amount of time before it
it would only be released when heating temperature must be replaced) further adding to cost. The chemical

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020 189

reactions that are responsible for poisoning of the AFC economic category among other fuel cells [23].
are the following [21].
3.7 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC)
CO2 + 2OH– → CO23 + H2O and/or
CO2 + 2KOH → K2CO3 + H2O One of the weaknesses, as similar with PAFC, is that
SOFC would be degraded due to carbon deposition
This affects the hydroxyl ions available and and sulphur poisoning. SOFC also requires an elevated
therefore reduces the conductivity of ions of the temperature for effective operation. However, the
electrolyte solution. In addition, it may affect the high-temperature operation has some disadvantages.
porosity of the electrode and block the movements or It results in a slow startup and requires significant
may stay as a liquid and reduce the conductivity of the thermal shielding so as to retain heat and protect
ionic conductivity of the electrolyte [21]. personnel, which may be acceptable for utility
applications but not for transportation and small
3.5 Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC) portable applications. The high operating temperatures
also place stringent durability requirements on
Similar with DMFC, the water is produced at the cell materials, and the development of low-cost materials
cathode and this must be removed to prevent the water with high durability is a key technical challenge facing
from dissolving in the electrolyte and affecting cell this technology. The current research emphasis is on
performance. Removal is achieved by passing excess exploring the potential for developing lower-temperature
air through the cathode to carry the water away as SOFCs operating at or below 800°C that have fewer
water vapor [22]. As mentioned in previous section, durability problems and cost less [2], [12], [24].
since it is operated by using acid at high pressure with
a favorable efficiency, the acid reaction is high, and this 4 Opportunity
leads higher expenses due to the high cell component
corrosion rate. 4.1 Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC)
Moreover, flooding would happen in PAFC,
where the water could affect the efficiency on In a contrast to the micro fuel cell, DMFC provides better
dissolving the electrolyte. While starting PAFC services in combination with the thin firm batteries,
requires preheating, on the other hand after starting, which creates a hybrid power system with rechargeable
and when it reaches to the required temperature, features. By applying DMFC in the mobile phones, the
regulating the temperature by removing the excess period of usage can be improved to readily available
heat is required. [11]. electrical power to at least 5 to 10 times greater energy
densities than rechargeable batteries, and less costly
3.6 Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) compared to the alternative battery technologies [25].
DMFC can also be used in the stationary electric
For the long-term operation of MCFC, the efficiency generation application more efficiently than producing
would be affected by handling problem of the liquid due electricity directly from fuel using internal combustion
to the electrolyte configuration. The other challenge engine. DMFC can be applied to residential, commercial
is depletion of liquid electrolyte caused by leakage, and industrial sectors for electricity as well as for heat
metal reaction and evaporation. Apart from that, the production. As DMFC do not need any reforming of
tolerance to sulfur in anode is very low which is no methanol, there are no losses in the reformer [26].
more than 1–5 ppm and this situation (sulfur poisoning)
leads to performance loss of the fuel cell. The performance 4.2 Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell
loss of the fuel cell will become obvious gradually (PEMFC)
when there is 1–5 ppm of the sulfur in the anode.
MCFC is suitable for continuous power supply that PEMFC is very functional and provides a lot of
requires large-scale and needs a big hydrogen tank convenience to the society. The major application
to produce electricity, while the application is in less includes mainly transportation sector as it is environment

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
190 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020

allows operation at a constant manner throughout the

Exhausst (CO2, H2)
Water Heater
year with their advancement using reversible fuel cell
PE Fuel Cell in conjunction with the consideration of the demand/
price of electricity [27].

4.4 Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC)

Electricity

Heating The operation of AFC is limited in an environment

without carbon dioxide in order not to affect the
electrolyte. Carbonates are formed when carbon
dioxide is in contact with alkaline as the carbonates are
a kind of insoluble salt which can stop the permeable
Natural gas
electrodes and obstruct the hydrogen and oxygen
flow causing power failure [28]. Therefore, the input
Figure 2: Schematic diagram of co-generation system. gases need to undergo purification in order to remove
the carbon dioxide. Nowadays, the technology of
friendly due to emission of the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide removal is completely developed and
(GHG) is not a problem. Vehicle companies are available. The cell life may ultimately be longer than
mostly applying this technology on their product due acid fuel cells because of greater compatibility of
to the high-power density, and the heat and power alkaline electrolytes with practical cell materials.
can be utilized with higher efficiency. Unlike internal With the long cell life advantage, NASA and UTC
combustion engine, PEMFC is not operating in Carnot had achieved over 15,000 h on space shuttle and
Cycle. Hence, the efficiency is higher since the loss Apollo-series mission in mid 1960s [29].
in converting mechanical energy to electrical energy
is avoided [6]. 4.5 Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC)
Furthermore, for the stationary power generation
application, PEMFC can be wisely utilized and the PAFC was observed robust on the medium capacity
waste heat can be efficiently used. It is also favorable to stationary application within 100 to 500 kW. Their
overcome the power losses during transmission in the silent operation and low emissions make PAFC more
case of long-distance energy transportation. Figure 2 preferable in sensitive urban areas where other types of
shows the smaller scale stationary power generation, generator might be less suitable [10]. Particularly for
which can produce higher electric power efficiency terrestrial stationary power application PAFC retains
with minimal noises [6]. important market share. Small commercial organization
such as hospitals and universities are the main targets
4.3 Reversible Fuel Cell (RFC) since both of heat and power can be utilized wisely
with economical unit size of 100 to 400 kW [28].
Harun et al. proposed a poly-generation plant As mentioned previously, the additional heat
combining reversible solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) that is produced when the cell reaches to operating
and biomass gasification. Their concept is to store point should be removed during operation [30]. In the
electricity through the production of bio–SNG from commercial field, the waste heat can be captured and
syngas generated from biomass gasification and sent for heating and used to drive the reformer that
electrolytic hydrogen when the electricity demand/price produced hydrogen for the fuel cell [31].
is low and resume electric production when electricity
demand/price is high. Their results showed that both 4.6 Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC)
the electricity and bio-SNG production efficiency are
high at 46 and 69% each and with the condition of MCFC is very ideal for powering large-scale and
coproduction at district heat, the total efficiency was stationary applications with more than 45% energy
able to rise to 85 and 90%, respectively. This system conversion. The entire process could be very stable

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020 191

with the longer warm-up period to reach the operating Besides, if the thermal conductivity is too low, the fuel
temperature and also it has slow response to changing cell temperature would be high that adversely affects
power demands [23]. With the ideal temperature of in use of the cell portably. Lesser water content is able
650°C from system design perspective, most of the to result in higher membrane resistance to proton, and
catalysts are suitable to be used under this temperature this reduces the PEMFC performance [34].
and internal reforming could be carried out under this
condition. MCFC has sufficient capacity to generate 5.3 Reversible Fuel Cell (RFC)
the high-grade waste heat since its scale is very huge. It
was observed that MCFC has the steepest polarization For reversible fuel cell, the operation is safe with
curve compared to other fuel cell, resulting in low almost zero threat to the surrounding. The only threat
current density operation. exists is on the hydrogen storage itself, especially the
storage in pressurized cylinder tank. Hydrogen is a
4.7 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) non-toxic compound, but it is flammable, especially
in a highly pressurized condition in a cylindrical tank.
The systems of SOFC provide a cleaner environment From the International Consortium for Fire Safety,
compared to other systems. Apart from that, it provides Health and Environment (ICFSHE), hydrogen would
a completely new businesses and employment areas have high burn and explosive velocity whenever the
with the realization of economic independence. With concentration is high [27].
the latest breakthroughs in the automotive industry, With this regard using RFC in fuel cell vehicle
electric cars are being considered as the ways for the car system could create trouble with the ignition source
future. Nevertheless, they found that electric car is especially during starting up of the engine. Fuel cell
taking time to charge, and this hinders their growth. vehicles have installed ultra-capacitor for storing
Therefore, the invention of SOFC would be one means electrical energy under high voltage for rapid release
to solve the prolonged charging time [12]. upon usage whereby this ultra-capacitor retains the
risk for critical undesired electrical discharges [20].
5 Threat
5.4 Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC)
5.1 Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC)
Similar with the reversible fuel cell (RFC), the
When bad methanol is mixed with oxygen during hydrogen is a safe element to be used in various
cross-over section, the methanol concentration experiments or even equipment as it is not toxic and
would be reduced, and this leads to slower reaction not carcinogenic. However, a proper mixture ratio of
rate. The oxygen flow rate would affect the fuel cell hydrogen with oxygen has a likelihood to be ignited
performance, where sufficient amount of oxygen by a spark which consider as high energy source.
with extensive flow rate is able to dry the membrane Furthermore, static electricity is a good possibility for
efficiency, and this could reduce the overall conductivity sparks as it ignited a leakage of hydrogen which can
simultaneously. The lower the oxygen flow rate, the cause the hydrogen storage tanks to burst into flame.
lower the cell voltage and power density [32]. Cell could get irreparable damage when trace amounts
of carbon dioxide react with the electrolyte [34].
5.2 Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell
(PEMFC) 5.5 Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC)

The ambient temperature is playing a significant role The pure hydrogen is required to be supplied at anode
on the performance of PEMFC. The flow velocity of of PAFC, since most of them rely on providing their
air reduces with temperature gradient. As a result, the fuel by reforming natural gas. The overall efficiency
mass transfer increases and the oxygen transfer would could be reduced during this energy intensive process
decrease which affects the water removal rate in the since some parts of them must be used to drive the
cathode that would cause flooding [33]. reformation reaction [35].

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
192 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020

On the other hand, the significant amount of carbon On top of that, from the previous section the pros
dioxide would be produced and released to the and cons of different fuel cells can be summarized as:
surrounding when the gas burns in a gas or steam • PAFCs are relatively matured as they have
turbine [10]. Hence, the extra procedure has to be been used to power buses as well as stationary
taken to capture CO2 after reforming hydrogen. In applications. Nevertheless, the cost is still high, and
order to protect the lifetime of platinum catalyst, the efficiency is relatively low.
sulfur compounds have to be removed to avoid sulfur • MCFCs are high efficiency, resistant to
emission poisoning on platinum catalyst [35]. contamination and can run on hydrocarbon fuels. They
run at high temperatures and are being developed for
5.6 Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) utility applications. Because of high temperatures,
durability is often an issue.
Production of the carbon dioxide is always the threat • SOFCs use ceramics in their electrodes. For
to the MCFC. Although certain amount of the carbon their operation catalyst is not required as they can work
dioxide is recycled but there is still small amount of it at very high temperatures. Although the efficiency of
being flushed out together with the water and this leads SOFCs is good, the startup time is slow, and hence
to water pollution. Users will rather choose other fuel they are not suitable for vehicle applications.
cell while considering the impact to the environment. • PEMFCs are commonly used in vehicle
applications with their fast response time characteristic.
5.7 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) However, the cost is the main concern since platinum
is used as catalyst and it is not cheap.
There are only few threats in SOFC. One of the threats • AFCs are applicable for potential production
is that the systems are risky to be used and it is costly. of current and power density. However, alkaline
It also requires exotic materials such as ceramic which electrolyte could absorb carbon dioxide and forms
is costly [13]. The complexity for manufacturing and insoluble carbonate.
its exaggerated cost are considered as a challenge in • RFCs are producing the electricity using
using the cell. hydrogen which is generated from solar or wind turbine.
• DMFCs use liquid methanol as a fuel. It is
6 Discussion and Conclusions being developed mainly for small portable applications
such as laptop and cell phone batteries.
In this paper seven types of fuel cells were considered, Although the preference of a specific fuel cell
and their strength, weakness, opportunities and threats depends on the type of application, Molten Carbonate
(SWOT) were investigated. Based on the study it was Fuel Cell (MCFC) appears to be the best option when
found that the choice of the cell mainly depends on the there is a high energy demand. In addition, MCFC is
intended application. List of fuel cells appropriate for a matured technology compared to other fuel cells.
various applications, i.e., for portable use, stationary It is also suitable for manufacturing industry which
use and transportation use, are shown in Table 2. involves many types of machineries in the production
line that need to operate all day long. Indeed, the release
Table 2: Application of fuel cell of carbon dioxide to the surrounding cannot be neglected
Application Portable Stationary Transportation
and needs further improvement to minimize its setback.
Typical 1 W–20 kW 0.5 W–400 kW 1 kW–100 kW
Fuel cells that can be operated at high temperatures
power range are well-suited for combined heat and power (CHP)
Typical PEMFC, DMFC PEMFC, SOFC, PEMFC, applications as the overall efficiency is better than to
technology MCFC, PAFC, AFC DMFC that of fuel cells used for power applications only.
Examples • Non-motive • Large stationary • Materials
auxiliary power combined heat and handling
units (campervans, power (CHP) vehicles References
boats, lighting) • Small stationary • Fuel cell
• Military • Uninterruptible electric
applications power supplies vehicles [1] M. Ma'arof, G. T. Chala, and S. Ravichanthiran,
• Portable products (UPS) (FCEV) “A study on microbial fuel cell (MFC) with

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020 193

graphite electrode to power underwater monitoring [12] C. Polat, “Market opportunities for hydrogen
devices,” International Journal of Mechanical solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC): A review of the
and Technology, vol. 9, pp. 98–105, 2018. literature and the future market trends,” presented
[2] Y. N. Magar, “Convective cooling and thermal at the Conference: Business & Economics
management optimization of planar anode- Conferences (EABR) and Teaching & Education
supported solid oxide fuel cells,” M.S. thesis, Conferences, Salzburg, Austria, Jun. 23–26,
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty 2008.
of Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Ohio, [13] Y. C. Ledon, “Introduction of advanced technology
USA, 2006. (solid oxide fuel cell) in the sugar cane industry:
[3] N. K. Shrivastava and T. A. Harris, Encyclopedia Technical and sustainability analysis,” Ph.D.
of Sustainable Technologies. Amsterdam, dissertation, Department of Sustainable Organic
Netherlands: Elsevier, 2017. Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience
[4] M. Sajgure, B. Kachare, P. Gawhale, S. Waghmare, Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
and G. Jagadale, “Direct methanol fuel cell: 2012.
A review,” International Journal of Current [14] N. Laosiripojana, W. Wiyaratn, W. Kiatkittipong,
Engineering and Technology, Special Issue 6 A. Arpornwichanop, A. Soottitantawat, and S.
(Oct 2016), pp. 8–11, 2016. Assabumrungrat, “Reviews on solid oxide fuel
[5] Y. Na, F. Zenith, and U. Krewer, “Increasing fuel cell technology,” Engineering Journal, vol. 13,
efficiency of direct methanol fuel cell systems pp. 65–84, 2009.
with feedforward control of the operating [15] J. Han and H. Liu, “Real time measurements
concentration,” Energies, vol. 8, pp. 10409–10429, of methanol crossover in a DMFC,” Journal of
2015. Power Sources, vol. 164, pp. 166–173, 2007.
[6] Y. Wang, K. S. Chen, J. Mishler, S. C. Cho, and [16] H. Yang and T. Zhao, “Effect of anode flow
X. C. Adroher, “A review of polymer electrolyte field design on the performance of liquid feed
membrane fuel cells: Technology, applications, direct methanol fuel cells,” Electrochimica Acta,
and needs on fundamental research,” Applied vol. 50, pp. 3243–3252, 2005.
Energy, vol. 88, pp. 981–1007, 2011. [17] H.-C. Cha, C.-Y. Chen, and J.-Y. Shiu, “Investigation
[7] J. Piao, S. Liao, and Z. Liang, “A novel cesium on the durability of direct methanol fuel cells,”
hydrogen sulfate–zeolite inorganic composite Journal of Power Sources, vol. 192, pp. 451–456,
electrolyte membrane for polymer electrolyte 2009.
membrane fuel cell application,” Journal of [18] Y. Chang, Y. Qin, Y. Yin, J. Zhang, and X. Li,
Power Sources, vol. 193, pp. 483–487, 2009. “Humidification strategy for polymer electrolyte
[8] E. Jannelli, M. Minutillo, and E. Galloni, membrane fuel cells–A review,” Applied Energy,
“Performance of a polymer electrolyte membrane vol. 230, pp. 643–662, 2018.
fuel cell system fueled with hydrogen generated [19] C. Hartnig, C. Hartnig, L. Jörissen, and J. A.
by a fuel processor,” Journal of Fuel Cell Science Kerres, Materials for Fuel Cells. Amsterdam,
and Technology, vol. 4, pp. 435–440, 2007. Netherlands: Elsevier, 2008.
[9] L. Mearian, “Navy tests first ‘reversible’ [20] A. M. Abdalla, S. Hossain, O. B. Nisfindy, A. T.
clean energy fuel cell storage system,” 2016. Azad, M. Dawood, and A. K. Azad, “Hydrogen
[Online]. Available: https://www.itnews.com/ production, storage, transportation and key
article/3032302/navy-tests-first-reversible-clean- challenges with applications: A review,” Energy
energy-fuel-cell-storage-system.html Conversion and Management, vol. 165, pp. 602–
[10] J. R. Vang, S. J. Andreasen, and S. K. Kær, “A 627, 2018.
transient fuel cell model to simulate HTPEM fuel [21] G. McLean, T. Niet, S. Prince-Richard, and N.
cell impedance spectra,” Journal of Fuel Cell Djilali, “An assessment of alkaline fuel cell
Science and Technology, vol. 9, p. 021005, 2012. technology,” International Journal of Hydrogen
[11] P. Breeze, Fuel Cell. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Energy, vol. 27, pp. 507–526, 2002.
Elsevier, 2017. [22] Acidpedia, “Phosphoric acid: A highly hyped

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”
194 Applied Science and Engineering Progress, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 185–194, 2020

chemical,” 2018. [Online]. Available: http:// Cell Science and Technology, vol. 11, p. 061001,
acidpedia.org/phosphoric-acid-highly-hyped- 2014.
chemical/ [29] P. Breeze, “The alkaline fuel cell,” in Fuel Cells.
[23] Brightkite, “Essay on advantages and disadvantages Massachusetts: Academic Press, 2017, pp. 23–32.
of a molton carbonate fuel cell,” 2018. [Online]. [30] P. Breeze, “The Phosphoric acid fuel cell,” in
Available: https://www.123helpme.com/advantages- Fuel Cell. Massachusetts: Academic Press, 2017,
and-disadvantages-of-a-molton-carbonate-fuel- pp. 45–51.
cell-preview.asp?id=305431 [31] Y. Yoshioka, “Cell technologies for high
[24] A. B. Stambouli and E. Traversa, “Solid oxide fuel pressure type PAFC,” presented at the Fuel Cell
cells (SOFCs): A review of an environmentally Seminar, Washington DC, May 19–22, 1985.
clean and efficient source of energy,” Renewable [32] S. Jessie Lue, W.-L. Hsu, C.-Y. Chao, and K.
and Sustainable Energy Rreviews, vol. 6, pp. 433– Mahesh, “Effects of operating conditions on
455, 2002. direct methanol fuel cell performance using
[25] S. K. Kamarudin, F. Achmad, and W. R. W. Daud, nafion-based polymer electrolytes,” Journal of
“Overview on the application of direct methanol Fuel Cell Science and Technology, vol. 11, no. 6,
fuel cell (DMFC) for portable electronic devices,” p. 061004, 2014.
International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, vol. 34, [33] A. Iranzo, A. Salva, E. Tapia, and F. Rosa,
pp. 6902–6916, 2009. “Effect of the membrane thermal conductivity
[26] A. Hacquard, “Improving and understanding on the performance of a polymer electrolyte
direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) performance,” membrane fuel cell,” Journal of Fuel Cell Science
M.S. thesis, Department of Chemical Engineering, and Technology, vol. 11, p. 031007, 2014.
Faculty of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, [34] B. Tavakoli and R. Roshandel, “The effect of
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Massachusetts, fuel cell operational conditions on the water
USA, 2005. content distribution in the polymer electrolyte
[27] H. Æ. Sigurjonsson and L. R. Clausen, “Solution for membrane,” Renewable Energy, vol. 36, pp.
the future smart energy system: A polygeneration 3319–3331, 2011.
plant based on reversible solid oxide cells and [35] Reportlinker, “Phosphoric acid market-global
biomass gasification producing either electrofuel industry analysis, size, share, growth, trends, and
or power,” Applied Energy, vol. 216, pp. 323– forecast 2018–2026,” 2018. [Online]. Available:
337, 2018. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/
[28] N. F. Harun, D. Tucker, and T. A. Adams, “Fuel phosphoric-acid-market---global-industry-
composition transients in fuel cell turbine hybrid analysis-size-share-growth-trends-and-forecast-
for polygeneration applications,” Journal of Fuel 2018---2026-300669420.html

F. M. Guangul and G. T. Chala, “A Comparative Study between the Seven Types of Fuel Cells.”