Tungsten Carbide Electrodes for Fuel Cells with Acid Electrolyte

Abstract

FUEL cells with acid electrolyte, such as dilute sulphuric acid, have the advantage over those with alkaline electrolyte that carbon dioxide is not absorbed by the electrolyte. In principle it is therefore possible to use organic fuels, either direct or by reforming them with water vapour, without removing the resultant carbon dioxide. Even if carbon-free fuels such as hydrogen or hydrazine are used, an acid electrolyte should be preferred, for carbon dioxide need not be removed from the air. In the past, however, no acid-resistant catalyst has been found that might replace expensive and easily poisoned platinum.