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

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

Sorubi Recreational Park and its Social and Environmental Effect on the Region:

By: Eng. Mohammad Naeem Nekmal | Sorubi Economic Zone Project Manager

Recreational areas and resorts are one of the three basic necessities of man, namely work, rest and recreation. The resorts are said to be the places where people go on vacation for fun and exhaustion. The existence of recreational areas such as lush parks, gardens, agricultural farms, and gardens are extremely important not only for recreation but also for the protection of the environment and the beauty of urban areas.

 From the psychological point of view, recreation has a profound effect on the human psyche. Just as we need food in need of fun, having fun throughout the week helps keep our lives out of shape and alleviates mental depression, if recreation is not included in the division of life, the body becomes vulnerable and causes psychological damage, such as depression and boredom. The lack of complete security, poverty, and other social issues have made the culture of recreation in the country less.

Project Goals:

Objectives and components of the project are:

·         Establishment of public facilities.

·         Creating a healthier sanctuary for Kabul citizens and other visitors.

·         Encouraging the private sector to invest.

·         Revitalize and improve the sustainable environment.

·         Creating employment and source of sustained income and development of public facilities.

·         Reconstruction of sanctuary areas, whether natural or non-natural.

·         Better prospect and landscape in the area.

Related Sector

The project is directly related to the balanced development and the development of Sorubi economic zone to improve the level of economy of the country and the region.

Analyze and evaluate the past and present state of the sector in terms of quantity and quality.

·         Recent years in the urban the development sector has made good progress, on the other hand, technology and building materials are abundantly available. In the past, there have been many problems in this sector, which has led to urban planning not being fully implemented. 

·         Lack of green areas and purple trees in the area, which is in agreement with the microclimate of the area and still has a special beauty.

·         Environmental pollution such as water pollution and lack of sanitation, air pollution and traffic noise from urban traffic noise.

·         Lack of proper management of revenues and taxes.

·         Avoidance of birds and ducks as a result of environmental problems

·         Release of repairs near waterway

·         usurpation of government land

·         Lack of a safe recreational area for families

·         Lack of standard and safe recreational facilities

·         Existence of non-standard wooden and metal stands that reduce the beauty of the area

·         Lack of public internal traffic and congestion

·         Lack of strategic development plans for the present and future development of the site

The role and impact of the project in the development of other sectors and the national economy;

 Implementation of this project will help to make the country more fun. 
The project will eliminate the problem of standard amusement parks at the level of the capital zone. The project will address the basic human needs and provide an area for rest and relaxation. 
By creating a peaceful and green space, separate parks for esteemed families, youth and children, public service areas, restaurants, etc. will alleviate depression and depression.

Providing social justice with appropriate and equitable participation in the provision of social and public facilities

Environmental Benefits

Parks and recreation infrastructure and facilities promote conservation and environmental sustainability.

Parks facilities conserve natural resources and wildlife habitat, protect air and water quality, and preserve open space for current and future generations. Through stewardship activities, parks can involve the public in conservation efforts and increase awareness of environmental needs. Parks and open space conserves scenic vistas, maintains healthy ecosystems, and provides carbon‐reducing sustainable landscapes.

Social and Equity Benefits

Parks and recreation facilities also, provide social and equity benefits for community members.

Public parks provide equal access to all citizens regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or ability. Parks and recreation facilities can foster community pride, bring people together, create destination-oriented places, and connect people to each other and nature. “Pocket parks” are small outdoor spaces, often in urban areas, that provide active recreation opportunities for residents—including children—in underserved areas. According to an issue brief on pocket parks by the National Recreation and Park Association, successful parks have four key qualities. They are accessible, allow people to engage in activities, comfortable, and sociable places. These small parks may be created by transforming vacant lots, rooftops, or previously hardscape areas along sidewalks and active transportation routes.

About the Author


Project Manager / Economic Zone @ Capital Region Independent Development Authority.
Graduated from Kabul Polytechnic University in 2009 since then he has been working as a Site Engineer and quality control engineer, Project Manager, Construction Manager, QA engineer, Provincial manager, and Technical manager / Coordinator he has been mainly responsible for Training for MoE (Ministry of Education) Infrastructure Team engineers and making proposal for the project and mainly responsible for several ADB highway and Ring Road Projects in Afghanistan.