Fuel Cells: Operation and Integration with Thermal Batteries

The fuel cells, or combustion cells, are revolutionizing the sustainable energy sector thanks to their ability to produce electricity through chemical reactions, with a reduced environmental impact. These technologies are applied in various sectors, from industry to mobility, due to their high efficiency and the possibility of using different fuels, such as hydrogen and ethanol.
To maximize performance and reduce energy waste, fuel cells can be integrated with thermal batteries, which allow for the recovery of dispersed heat and improve the overall efficiency of the system.
In this article, we will explore the functioning of fuel cells, their applications, and the benefits of integration with thermal batteries.

Fuel Cells: How Do They Work?

Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that generate electrical energy through a chemical reaction between a fuel (such as hydrogen or ethanol) and an oxidizer (oxygen or air). This process occurs without direct combustion, reducing pollutant emissions compared to traditional systems.

Main Types of Fuel Cells and Their Functioning

1. Hydrogen Fuel Cell (PEMFC – Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell):
   • Operate using hydrogen as fuel.
   • Generate electricity with high efficiency and low emissions.
   • Mainly used in hydrogen vehicles and stationary power systems.
2. Ethanol Fuel Cell (SOFC – Solid Oxide Fuel Cell):
   • Can operate with natural gas or other hydrocarbons.
   • Work at high temperatures and are ideal for industrial applications.
   • Offer competitive efficiency but require an advanced heat management system.
3. MCFC – Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells:
   • Operate at temperatures around 650°C, using molten carbonates as an electrolyte.
   • Suitable for combined electricity and heat production.
   • Can capture CO₂, contributing to emission reduction.

Applications of Fuel Cells in Industrial and Residential Sectors

Fuel cells are employed in various fields due to their ability to provide clean and continuous energy.

Application Sectors

• Industry: Power supply for production plants, with heat recovery for high-temperature processes.
• Mobility: Hydrogen-powered vehicles and zero-emission public transport.
• Residential sector: Energy generation for homes and small buildings, with heat recovery for domestic heating.

For more insights into the role of thermal batteries in residential applications, read our article:
Underfloor Heating or Radiators? The Important Thing Is Having a Thermal Battery

Limitations of Fuel Cells and the Role of Thermal Batteries

Despite their high performance, fuel cells have some limitations, particularly the dispersion of heat generated during the energy conversion process.

Why Would Thermal Batteries Be Beneficial?

1. Recovery of Dispersed Heat:
   • High-temperature fuel cells, such as MCFC, release heat that can be recovered and reused.
   • Integration with PCM (Phase Change Material) thermal batteries allows for optimization of this residual heat.
2. Improvement of Overall Efficiency:
   • A thermal battery can store thermal energy during periods of low demand and release it when needed.
   • The release can occur at high power and directly, enabling response to instant heat demands, sometimes without additional components required in traditional heat storage systems.
3. Reduction of Operating Costs:
   • Using a thermal battery reduces the need for active cooling systems, lowering overall energy costs.
4. Greater Environmental Sustainability:
   • Better energy utilization means lower CO₂ emissions and a reduced environmental impact.

Fuel Cells and Thermal Batteries: A Strategic Integration

Combining fuel cells and thermal batteries is a winning solution for various sectors, increasing energy efficiency and reducing waste.

Examples of Integration:

• Industrial production plants: Heat recovery from MCFC fuel cells to power other production processes.
• Construction sites: Heat recovery from MCFC fuel cells during workers' shifts, then using it at the end of the day to produce hot water for locker rooms.
• Residential buildings: Use of hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity and heat, which can be stored in a thermal battery and later used for domestic hot water heating.

The adoption of this technology contributes to a more efficient energy transition, reducing costs and environmental impact.
I-TES solutions maximize the energy yield of fuel cells, providing a concrete response to sustainability and cost reduction needs.
Want to find out how to integrate thermal batteries into fuel cell systems? Contact us for a personalized consultation and start your journey towards more sustainable energy today.