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Κυψέλες καυσίμου (Bachelor thesis)

Τζανίδης, Χρήστος Νεκτάριος/ Tzanidis, Christos Nektarios

This thesis examines hydrogen fuel cells as one of the most relevant technologies in terms of energy conversion in the context of the modern energy transition. It begins with a discussion of the background in terms of the energy and environmental situation, which has an interest in hydrogen fuel cells, and then discusses the basic principles of hydrogen fuel cells in terms of the underlying physical and chemical properties of hydrogen and electrochemistry. The thesis provides a classification of hydrogen fuel cells with a particular emphasis on alternative proton membrane fuel cells, but other types of fuel cells are also presented (alkali, phosphoric acid, molten carbonate, solid oxide). At the same time, the thesis discusses issues of hydrogen production, storage, transportation and infrastructure, which have a significant impact on the application of hydrogen fuel cells. The main hydrocarbon fuel cells discussed with emphasis on transportation, power generation, portable and other types of applications. It is shown how hydrogen fuel cells offer specific advantages such as efficiency, low local emissions, low noise and the possibility of use when direct electrical supply is less practical. However, some limitations are discussed, such as high cost, the need for high durability, hydrogen storage, safety issues and insufficient development of the corresponding infrastructure. The final conclusion is that hydrogen fuel cells offer some potential, but coordinated progress is needed in the areas of low-emission hydrogen production, reducing its cost, improving durability and developing infrastructure.