11. Glossary

There are at least 6 types of fuel cells:

• 3 with acid electrolytes (H ⁺ ions migrating from anode to cathode):

  • PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell): the electrolyte consists of a solid polymer membrane operating at low temperatures (20 - 100°C). This selectively transmits to the cathode the H ⁺ ions formed by catalytic oxidation of hydrogen injected directly onto the anode;

  • DMFC (Direct Methanol Fuel Cell): instead of hydrogen, these cells use methanol (CH ₃ OH) as fuel. Injected directly onto the anode with water, its catalytic oxidation produces H ⁺ ions and carbon dioxide. As with PEMFCs,...