Hydrogen Fuel Cell

A hydrogen fuel cell kit demonstrates how water can be split into hydrogen and oxygen using electrolysis, and how the gases can later be recombined in the fuel cell to generate electricity that powers a small device such as a motor or light.

1. Assemble the commercially available hydrogen fuel cell kit according to instructions.
2. Fill the kit’s water reservoirs with distilled water.
3. Connect the electrolyzer section to a low-voltage power supply (such as a small solar panel or battery).
4. Allow the electrolyzer to run until hydrogen and oxygen gases are visibly collected in their respective chambers.
5. Disconnect the power supply and connect the fuel cell to a small load, such as the motor or LED provided in the kit.
6. Observe how the stored hydrogen and oxygen recombine inside the fuel cell to produce electricity and power the device.

Solar powered hydrogen fuel cell demo - Philip Russell:

Electrolyzer and Fuel Cell Demo - U.S. Department of Energy:

• Use a solar panel instead of a battery to power the electrolysis, demonstrating renewable energy integration.
• Connect different loads (small fan, LED light, buzzer) to see how much energy the fuel cell can provide.
• Collect measurements of voltage and current during both electrolysis and fuel cell operation for more advanced analysis.

• Use only distilled water to prevent mineral buildup in the apparatus.
• Do not attempt to ignite the hydrogen gas produced; it is highly flammable.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the kit.
• Ensure the apparatus is used in a well-ventilated area.

• What are the products of electrolysis of water? (Hydrogen and oxygen gases.)
• What reaction occurs when the fuel cell produces electricity? (Hydrogen and oxygen recombine to form water, releasing energy.)
• Why is hydrogen considered a clean fuel? (Its only combustion or fuel cell byproduct is water.)
• How could fuel cells be useful for future energy systems? (They can store renewable energy, power vehicles, and reduce carbon emissions.)
• What limits the widespread use of hydrogen fuel cells today? (Storage and transport challenges, cost of infrastructure, and efficiency of hydrogen production.)