2025 WICO
(World Invention Creativity Olympic)
Experimental study comparing the efficiency of electric and hydrogen fuel cell cars using small car models.
Authors
Nam Taeyun, Shin Seungho, Chaewon Yang, Yoonhyuk Cho, Junmo Joshua Son
Abstract
Hydrogen fuel cells are a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources. They have gained popularity in recent years due to their high energy conversion efficiency and versatility. Unlike other types of energy sources, fuel cells can determine the power freely since the current is adjusted according to the unit cell area, and the voltage is adjusted according to the number of stacked unit cells.
One of the biggest advantages of hydrogen fuel cells is that they directly react oxygen in the air to generate electricity, making them more convenient and efficient as there is no need for an additional oxygen tank. This is different from traditional combustion engines that require a constant supply of oxygen to burn fuel and produce energy. Fuel cells work by supplying hydrogen to the cathode and oxygen to the anode in the electrolyte. At the cathode, hydrogen releases electrons, which move to the anode through the electrolyte and react with oxygen molecules to form water while generating electricity. This process results in a clean and efficient energy source, with water being the only byproduct.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, hydrogen fuel cells are also versatile in their applications. They can be used in various settings, including power plants, homes, and even vehicles. For instance, hydrogen fuel cell cars are powered by the electric energy generated by the fuel cells using hydrogen and oxygen produced in the factory. This makes them an attractive option for the automotive industry as they offer a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Despite their advantages, there are still some challenges associated with the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cells. One of the main challenges is the infrastructure needed to produce and distribute hydrogen. Currently, most hydrogen is produced by decomposing fossil fuels, which defeats the purpose of using a clean energy source. However, technology is being developed to extract hydrogen from water, which would allow us to obtain hydrogen infinitely without going through fossil fuels.
In recent years, efforts have been made to improve fuel cell efficiency by comparing the efficiency of different types of hydrogen fuel cells with various shapes. Moreover, studies have been conducted to investigate the energy efficiency of different types of cars, including petroleum fuel cars, electric cars, and hydrogen fuel cell cars. These studies showed that hydrogen fuel cell cars have better energy efficiency than petroleum fuel cars and are more environmentally friendly than electric cars.
In conclusion, hydrogen fuel cells offer a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources. With their high energy conversion efficiency, versatility, and environmentally friendly nature, they have the potential to revolutionize the way we produce and consume energy. Despite challenges that still need to be addressed, the development of technology to extract hydrogen from water is a significant step towards realizing the full potential of fuel cells as a clean energy source.
2025 AIJAM
The investigation of the color spectrum of hydrogen fuel for a future energy transition
Authors
Kim Haeon, Khan K. Lee, Shin Seungho, Daniel Jacob Chung, Chaewon Yang, Nala K. Lee
Abstract
Renewable energy sources offer numerous benefits, including their abundant availability, potential for decentralized power generation, and the ability to diversify energy sources. Moreover, renewable energy technologies have been advancing rapidly, leading to increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This progress has made renewable energy an attractive and viable option for meeting our energy needs while minimizing environmental harm.
The adoption of hydrogen as a versatile fuel, industrial feedstock, and energy storage medium is driven by a multitude of compelling reasons. This study aims to comprehensively present these reasons while providing an in-depth overview of different hydrogen production methods. In particular, it highlights the color prefixes used to describe different types of hydrogen and delves into the relative greenhouse gas emissions and economics of green and blue hydrogen production. The ultimate goal is to achieve a 'net zero' climate-neutral energy system by 2050.
Hydrogen holds immense potential as a clean and sustainable energy carrier. Its versatility allows it to be utilized across various sectors, including transportation, industry, and power generation. As a fuel, hydrogen offers significant advantages such as high energy density, zero emissions when used in fuel cells, and the ability to be produced from diverse feedstocks. It can play a crucial role in decarbonizing sectors that are challenging to electrify, such as heavy-duty transportation and industrial processes.
The study provides a comprehensive overview of different hydrogen production methods, taking into account their environmental impact and cost considerations. Grey hydrogen, produced from fossil fuels without carbon capture or utilization, is the most common form of hydrogen currently in use. Blue hydrogen, produced from fossil fuels with carbon capture and storage technologies, represents a transitional solution with significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources, is the ultimate goal for achieving a sustainable and carbon-neutral energy system.
The study acknowledges the current reliance on blue hydrogen as an essential step towards reducing emissions in the short term. However, it also recognizes the rapidly declining costs of renewable electricity and electrolysers, which are critical components of green hydrogen production. As the costs of these technologies continue to fall, it is anticipated that green hydrogen will soon become more cost-effective than blue hydrogen.