The Power of Reversible Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Separating Hydrogen and Oxygen from Water

Introduction:

The quest for clean and sustainable energy sources has led to significant advancements in the field of hydrogen fuel cells. One of the key challenges in harnessing hydrogen as an energy carrier is the separation of hydrogen and oxygen gases from water. In recent years, reversible hydrogen fuel cells have emerged as a promising solution for this task. In this article, we will explore the workings of reversible hydrogen fuel cells and their role in efficiently extracting hydrogen and oxygen from water.

 

Understanding Reversible Hydrogen Fuel Cells:

 

Reversible hydrogen fuel cells, also known as reversible proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), are a variant of traditional PEMFCs. While conventional PEMFCs generate electricity from hydrogen gas, reversible fuel cells can operate in reverse mode, enabling the production of hydrogen and oxygen gases from water.

 

Mechanism of Action:

 

Reversible hydrogen fuel cells operate through a series of electrochemical reactions that take place within the cell. Let's dive into the detailed process:

1. Electrolysis Mode:

In the electrolysis mode, an external electrical current is supplied to the reversible fuel cell, initiating the splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases.

• At the anode:

2H2O (liquid) → 4H+ (protons) + 4e- (electrons) + O2 (oxygen gas)

• At the cathode:

4H+ (protons) + 4e- (electrons) → 2H2 (hydrogen gas)

 

When the electrical current is applied, water molecules at the anode are oxidized, releasing protons (H+) and electrons (e-). The protons migrate through a proton exchange membrane to the cathode, while the electrons flow through an external circuit. At the cathode, the protons and electrons combine, resulting in the production of hydrogen gas.

2. Fuel Cell Mode:

 

During the fuel cell mode, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are supplied to the reversible fuel cell, which then generates electrical energy through the reverse reaction.

• At the anode:

2H2 (hydrogen gas) → 4H+ (protons) + 4e- (electrons)

• At the cathode:

O2 (oxygen gas) + 4H+ (protons) + 4e- (electrons) → 2H2O (liquid)

 

In this mode, hydrogen gas is oxidized at the anode, releasing protons and electrons. The protons migrate through the proton exchange membrane to the cathode, while the electrons flow through an external circuit, generating electrical power. At the cathode, oxygen gas combines with protons and electrons to form water.

Note: This animation from FREUDENBERG Youtube Channel will remove your confusion about Electrons migration and producing Electricity.

Efficiency and Advantages:

 

Reversible hydrogen fuel cells offer several advantages over traditional electrolysis methods for hydrogen production. Firstly, they are highly efficient, allowing for the conversion of electrical energy into chemical energy (hydrogen) with minimal energy loss. Secondly, these fuel cells can be integrated with renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, enabling sustainable hydrogen production. Furthermore, reversible fuel cells provide the flexibility to switch between electrolysis and fuel cell modes, making them versatile for various applications.

 

Conclusion:

 

Reversible hydrogen fuel cells represent a significant leap forward in the field of hydrogen separation from water. By leveraging the principles of electrochemistry, these innovative cells enable the efficient extraction of hydrogen and oxygen gases. With their high efficiency and adaptability, reversible fuel cells hold great potential for a sustainable and clean energy future, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based systems.

 

Once again, many thanks from ELBCAMPUS administration for providing us such an interesting subject with great practical methods.

 

Naeem Nekmal

Hamburg, Deutschland

June, 2023

Our Visit from IBA HAMBURG, Introduction and Purpose of this Innovative Building

IBA DOCK: A Hub of Innovation and Inspiration in Hamburg

Introduction:

The IBA DOCK not only houses the exhibition of the International Building Exhibition 2006-2013, but is also itself an exhibit of  innovative building and energy-saving technologies: the building is situated on an approximately 50-metre-long and 26-metre-wide concrete pontoon; the superstructures are made of steel in modular construction. This saves weight and makes it possible to remove a part of the superstructures in case of transport, so that the IBA DOCK can also navigate under low bridges. The IBA DOCK was designed by the Han Slawik Architectural Bureau in Hannover; the 10-month construction period was coordinated by the municipal development company ReGe Hamburg Projektrealisierungsgesellschaft (Project Realisation Company) mbH.

What is the purpose of the IBA HAMBURG?

1. A Center of Inspiration: IBA DOCK is a place where architects, urban planners, researchers, and enthusiasts come together to share knowledge and inspiration. The dynamic atmosphere encourages dialogue, fostering the exchange of ideas that push the boundaries of architectural and urban design. Whether through exhibitions, workshops, or conferences, IBA DOCK sparks creativity and fuels innovation.

2. Architectural Exhibitions: The exhibition spaces at IBA DOCK showcase an impressive collection of architectural projects, highlighting the latest trends and advancements in the field. From scale models to digital presentations, these displays immerse visitors in a world of visionary designs. Here, today on 08, June 2023 we witness the evolution of urban landscapes, explore sustainable building techniques, and discover groundbreaking concepts that redefine our perception of cities.

3. Collaborative Workshops: IBA DOCK is not just a passive showcase; it actively engages visitors through interactive workshops and design charrettes. These collaborative sessions bring together architects, designers, and urban planners to tackle real-world challenges, brainstorm ideas, and propose innovative solutions. The workshops at IBA DOCK foster interdisciplinary collaboration, nurturing a spirit of cooperation and creativity.

4. Future-oriented Conferences: At IBA DOCK, thought-provoking conferences and symposiums take place, exploring the future of urban development and architectural trends. Experts from around the world gather to share their insights, research, and experiences, shaping the discourse on sustainable cities. These conferences inspire attendees to think critically and envision a more inclusive, environmentally friendly, and socially vibrant urban future.

5. Networking and Idea Exchange: IBA DOCK is a melting pot of ideas, where professionals and enthusiasts can network, forge connections, and find potential collaborators. From casual conversations over a cup of coffee to structured networking events, IBA DOCK cultivates an environment that fosters meaningful connections. These interactions often lead to innovative partnerships, further fueling the advancement of architectural and urban design.

Conclusion: IBA DOCK embodies the spirit of exploration, innovation, and collaboration that drives the architectural and urban design community in Hamburg. With its dynamic exhibitions, interactive workshops, inspiring conferences, and vibrant networking opportunities, IBA DOCK serves as a catalyst for change and progress. By bringing together visionaries and enthusiasts, it fosters a shared vision of sustainable, livable, and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces. Whether you're an architect, a student, or simply someone passionate about the future of cities, a visit to IBA DOCK promises to ignite your imagination and leave you inspired.

at last but not least, On behalf of all my classmates I am really thankful of ELBCAMPUS Management and Organizers especially Mr. Heornicke, Mr. Dolgij and Mrs Gesa von Maydell for such an Interesting class and site visits.

Naeem Nekmal

09, June 2023

Hamburg, Germany

Sorubi Recreational Park Phase I

Recreation areas and resorts are one of the three basic necessities of human beings, which are work, rest, and Amusement.
Recreational Areas are where people go on holidays for fun and relaxation.
The existence of recreational areas such as green parks, gardens, agricultural farms, and gardening is
extremely important not only for entertainment and recreation but also in the protection of the environment and the beauty of the city.
Sorubi district of Kabul province, Afghanistan is one of the main options for recreation with its refreshing climate and wonderful potential.
Residents of the eastern zone of the capital, which is visited by visitors every year. According to the statistics, the Recreation areas on holidays, especially on Fridays in the warm seasons of the year may have a large number of #visitors, which is an estimated about 4000 - 5000 visitors.
Sorubi Recreational Park Phase I (Bagh-e Rayees) is one of the recreational areas which has been planned in 10 hectares area that is used by tourists in almost all seasons of the year.

@nekmalblog

Investing in Agriculture Sector

Historically, Afghanistan enjoyed a good reputation in the cultivation of high-end horticultural crops such as raisins, pomegranates, pistachios, and almonds, and possessed a large international market share. In the 1970s, Afghan-cut flowers graced tables from the Middle East to Europe. From India to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, there is a great demand for Afghan table grapes. Now, it is entering a growing and sustainable international market for its high-quality fruits.

About 85% – 90% population in rural areas is engaged in the agriculture sector which plays a vital role in the livelihood of 76% of the total population. It is responsible for about a quarter of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in recent years. Following almost three decades of conflict, the government, farmers, and relevant stakeholders have worked hard to revitalize the agriculture sector. Rural economic development is among the highest priorities of the Afghan government. This also attracts development funds from a host of international donors. There is a high emphasis on investment in agro-business and agro-processing as it has a huge positive impact on the production and consumption of domestic products and the overall economic development of Afghanistan.

Agriculture Sector Contribution in GDP percentage

The current agriculture area of Afghanistan is 9,610 thousand hectares. Investment opportunities in this sector are further divided into subcategories discussed below:

Horticulture: The raw products of horticulture are fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olives. Many fresh fruits and nuts produced in Afghanistan are of very good quality and are well known worldwide. In 2014-15, the total cultivation area of fresh fruits and vegetables was 257,435 ha and major fruits cultivated were oranges, citrus fruits, apples, pears, apricots, peaches, plums, berries, grapes, watermelons, melons, figs and more. Olives, for example, are cultivated on 2,200 ha and their production for 2012-13 was around 6,600 tons. Afghanistan is also a producer of good quality dry fruits such as raisins, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and peanuts. Grains & Cereals: Wheat and other grains are the main food crops in Afghanistan that are cultivated on irrigated & rain-fed land. The growth in the GDP from agriculture products was between 3%-4% in 2014-15. In 2014-15, the domestic production for cereal products was 674, 4259 tons while potato and beet production reached 351,587 tons.

However, domestic production cannot meet the local demand; hence, Afghanistan imports cereals & grains in huge quantities. Animal Husbandry: Livestock is an inseparable part of the agriculture sector. Traditionally, Afghanistan has been involved in livestock breeding for households, but in the past decade, animal husbandry has become a vital sector for the economic development of the country. Currently, there are 5.3 million cattle, 13.5 million sheep, and 11.1 million chickens. Other than domestic stock, Afghanistan imported 10,392 tons of milk powder, 11,747 tons of beef, and 42,300 tons of chicken meat. Afghanistan also exported 3,707 pieces of sheep and 1,907 tons of Kurk wool which is a clear investment opportunity for the private sector involvement in the leather processing. Seeds, Pulses, Spices & Medical Herbs: Oilseeds and pulses were cultivated on 154,594 ha in 2014-15 and Afghanistan exported 3,936 tons of these seeds during the same period. The country can produce watermelon seeds, alfalfa and clover seeds, sunflower, sesame, linseed and more. Similarly, 3,836 tons of spices and 11,766 tons of medical herbs were exported in 2014-15 while the production of saffron, which is considered one of the best qualities in the world, was 3.4 tons with a cultivation area of 811 ha (4.2 kg production per hectare). Most of the domestic production of Afghanistan is exported to regional and international

Agriculture sub-Sectors

· Horticulture

Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, olive, etc.

· Cereals & Grains

Wheat, maize, sugar can, sugar beet, barley, etc.

· Animal Husbandry

Dairy, honey, poultry, meat, milk, fish, etc.

o Seeds & Pulses

Sunflower, sesame, linseed, etc.

§ Spices & Medical Herbs

Saffron, cumin, anise, etc.

Investment Opportunities in the Value Chain of Agriculture Sector

Manufacturing & Processing

· Processing dry fruits & nuts

· Manufacturing of jams, juices, sauces

· Processing/manufacturing of olive oil & olive pickle

· Flour mills & sugar mills

· Production of potato snacks

· Manufacturing of cakes and biscuits

· Producing pasteurized dairy products: milk, curd, yogurt, cheese

· Processing meat

· Processing dry meat

· Extracting and processing oils

· Establishing cold storages

· Production of cashmere and its garments

· Cotton processing and cotton yarn production

· Producing leather

Packaging

· Fresh and dry fruit boxes/packages

· Jars, lids, and tins

· Glass and plastic bottles

· Plastic wrappers

· Tetra-pack packaging

Trading & Marketing

· Transport and logistic services

· Market identification services

· Trade partnership building services

· Marketing services

· Branding services

source: www.investinafghanistan.af

Infrastructure of Afghanistan

Infrastructure:

Land Lease in Afghanistan:

Other than the Industrial Parks which are allotted with complete infrastructure (designing & mapping, roads, drainage system, water, and power, etc.) ready for use, the Independent Land Authority of Afghanistan (ARAZI) offers land on lease for long term at a very low cost (USD 4/Jerib per year) and up to 1000 ha lease to a single company for investments in economic activities.

ARAZI has awarded up to 32,000 ha land in 3,000 contracts in the past 5 years. 70 percent of this land was allotted to a variety of industries in the private sector and 30 percent was used by the agriculture sector. More than 20,000 jobs were created in both areas and investments valued at USD 600 million leveraged.

Steps for Leasing Land for Long term Investment through the Independent Land Authority of Afghanistan

Land Award Policy

“First come, first served”

How to Get Land on Lease?

By completing 9 steps and within 50 days you can get land on a long term lease contract for all sectors & industries

Contract Period

Up to 50 Years Lease contract with two time’s renewable option

Land Size

Up to 5000 Jirib or 1000 ha land to one company in one lease contract

Lease Fee

Starts from as minimum as 200 Afghanis or USD 4/Jirib a year

Special Discounts and Favorable Processes

Investments of USD 50 million or above in any sector or industry and 10% for women-owned businesses

Available Land for Lease

Kabul=5060 ha

Nangarhar=37825 ha

Balkh=33560 ha

Herat=7080 ha

Baghlan=8425 ha

Parwan=8360 ha

Roads of Afghanistan:


Action Plan for Railways of Afghanistan

Hairatan – Mazar-e-Sharif

Length: 75 Km Status: Completed

Afghanistan – China – Tajikistan – Kyrgyzstan – Iran

Length: 2100 Km Status: Planned

Bamyan – Kunduz

Length: 230 Km Status: Planned

Jalalabad – Kabul

Length: 120 Km Status: Planned

Bamyan – Herat

Length: 580 Km Status: Planned

Toorkham – Jalalabad

Length: 75 Km Status: Planned

Dilaram – Farah – Herat

Length: 275 Km Status: Planned

Khawaf – Herat

Length: 191 Km Status: Under Construction

Aqina – Sheberghan – Mazar

Length: 300 Km Status: Planned

Uzbekistan – Hairatan

Length: 15 Km Status: 15 Km

Islam Qala – Herat

Length: 124 Km Status: Under Construction

Total Planned Railway Track: 3429 Km                                            Status: To be completed by 2025

Source: www.investinafghanistan.af

Economic Profile of AFG

Investments:

Economic Profile

GDP Growth Rate:

Total GDP:


GDP per Capita:

GDP Formation:

source: www.investinafghanistan.af

The Future of Special Economic Zones in Afghanistan

HOW DOES THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S NEW SOUTH ASIA STRATEGY CHANGE THE PLAN FOR ESTABLISHING SEZS IN AFGHANISTAN?

The concept of special economic zones in Afghanistan is not intentional, rather accidental.  The scheduled withdrawal plan of U.S. and NATO forces in 2014 left a huge amount of infrastructure to Afghan forces. This included $2 billion worth of infrastructure and equipment at eight strategic airfields in the country, equipped with sophisticated machinery and a well-developed infrastructure.

Bastion-Helmand and Bagram-Kabul, in particular, are of considerable importance. Ashraf Ghani, the current president of Afghanistan and a former World Bank employee, proposed creating special economic zones (SEZs) at each airfield. An SEZ is a designated area where investors encounter more liberal investment and trade laws. Ghani’s proposal followed the path of Jordan, Panama, and the Philippines, which did the same with airfields in the past.

In order to efficiently utilize these airfields, President Ghani issued decree #43 in July 2015 for the establishment of the Afghanistan Airfields Economic Development Commission (AAEDC) which will carry through the SEZ plan. The development of SEZs in the country could pave the way to boosting the war-torn economy and decreasing dependency on foreign aid and donors by attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), creating domestic jobs, promoting exports and developing infrastructure.

The concept of SEZs is a groundbreaking initiative of the National Unity Government (NUG), and AAEDC is giving momentum and shaping the idea into practice. AAEDC has been working on several pathways to create the foundation and framework for the transition and development of portions of various NATO/ISAF-built facilities at several airbases in order to take practical steps to convert the airfields into SEZs.

Research by Samuel Hall reflects that Mazar-e-Sharif, Kabul, and Herat are possible options for establishing SEZs. These zones can be further extended to other provinces. The AAEDC in conjunction with its member ministries and the Chief Executive Office made a strategic plan for the upcoming three years to transform the SEZ idea into reality. Subsequent to these objectives, AAEDC intends to establish the first SEZ adjacent to the Kandahar airfield for which the approval of the High Economic Council has already been granted and later will expand the SEZ network to other viable regions within the country.

The Kandahar airfield has a strategic location vis-a-vis the international ports of Chabahar and Gwadar. Kandahar province is rich in agricultural and natural resources with comparative advantages in terms of raw material availability and potential business opportunities in the designated area. Afghanistan’s untapped wealth of minerals, including lithium and copper is estimated to be worth $1 trillion to $3 trillion. Lithium and copper are essential to modern industry.

The Trump administration’s new strategy for Afghanistan seems to be influenced by mining interests, with the administration taking seriously Afghanistan’s mineral resource potential. Global estimates show that world demand for lithium will exceed supply by 2020 and the world will face a shortage of a key metal that is abundant in Afghanistan. Global demand for these precious metals could eventually transform Afghanistan into one of the most important mining centers in the world.

The 16th-century geographic importance of Afghanistan was summarized by Babar, founder of the Mughal dynasty: “In Afghanistan, you can go in a single day to a place where the snow never falls, and in two hours you can also reach a place where the snow never melts.” In the 21st century, the great potential geoeconomic importance of Afghanistan remains robust — a hub of international trade connecting the energy-producing countries of Central Asia with the energy-hungry economies of South Asia. The establishment of SEZs in Afghanistan pairs well with connectivity initiatives in Central and South Asia to bring economic and political stability across the region. Joint-SEZ initiatives could change trade across the region. Such Joint SEZs could bridge the demand and supply gap in Asia, by Asia, through Asia. The Joint SEZ concept also pairs with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).ADVERTISEMENT

Well-developed infrastructure, resource availability, and location are the key determinants for the success of an SEZ; Afghanistan is blessed inherently with the latter two. Regional economic cooperation organizations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC), and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) can assist in feasibility studies and assessments targeted at the extractive industry of Afghanistan. The government of Afghanistan should prioritize open discussion among the regional countries for joint-SEZ. Establishing SEZs will also impact private sector growth, create opportunities for employment and will give relief to the headache of unemployment in the country.

Although the implementation of the SEZs is a win-win situation, believed to bring economic prosperity, security is the main problem preventing progress beyond financial issues. Taliban and other insurgents continue to seize territory and carry out coordinated attacks in the capital and in major provinces.

The Trump administration’s new South Asia strategy encompasses Pakistan, India, and the Central Asian nations and extends into Southeast Asia, but there is also an emphasis on Afghanistan. It does not involve a withdrawal of U.S. troops from the United States’ longest-running war but instead an increase in troop levels in four garrisons (Kabul, Kandahar, Bagram, and Jalalabad) to halt the deteriorated security situation. As such, the United States is reluctant to hand over its strategic airfields to the Afghan government, which was expected in 2018 as laid out in a previously scheduled transfer plan. NATO allies and global partners like Australia are also supporting the new strategy and have already pledged additional troops and funding increases to Afghanistan. The concept of establishing SEZs in Afghanistan is interlinked with the airfields transfer.

The SEZ idea will be buried under the dust of new boots on the ground in Afghanistan, as the United States is set to send up to 3,000 additional troops. Afghanistan’s meager developmental budget alone cannot answer the question of establishing SEZs, and the idea will likely have to wait for a later time.