Innovations in Fuel Cell Technologies RSC [Hardcover]

This book reviews the state-of-the-art in fuel cells (low and high temperature) across all the types applied in the field today and assesses current trends in development. The main technology problems are discussed and current gaps to market success identified. The innovations covered in the book deliver new answers to pertinent problems and/or offer new opportunities, be it in operating conditions, application area, extension of lifetime, new fuels, exciting new diagnosis and analysis methods. The volume gives an insight not only to the key developments within the next few years, but also shows perspectives in the mid-term. Readers receive an overview of cutting edge, challenging research and development that can be used in future developments, both of personal careers, as well as in company technology planning.Fuels Cells have evolved from an exotic technology only feasible under the constraints of space flight into a product addressing the 'everyman' consumer, although at first, in niche markets only. The considerable level of technological readiness that has been reached today finally gives rise to hopes that fuel cells will eventually make it to larger markets within the decade leading up to the year 2020. The potential in fuel cell technologies is tremendous and their commercial success is necessary in tailoring the worldwide energy supply systems towards efficiencies and emission levels that allow a long-term stable and sustainable development for the world economy and the environment. Innovations in Fuel Cell Technologies provides a state-of-the-art review on new fields of research that have high potential and interest for the fuel cell community. The main technology problems are discussed and current gaps to market success identified. The innovations covered in the book deliver new answers to pertinent problems and/or offer new opportunities, be it in operating conditions, application area, extension of lifetime, new fuels, exciting new diagnosis or analysilc2