Hydrogen fuel cells for cars and buses

The use of hydrogen fuel cells for cars is strongly promoted by the governments of many countries and by international organizations like the European Community. The electrochem. behavior of the most promising fuel cell (polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell, PEMFC) is critically discussed, based on results presented in the literature. Moreover, when some non- electrochem. aspects are taken into consideration, it is concluded that the prospects are not too bright. Moreover, the hydrogen-rich gas generated from small orgs. contains CO2 and a small amt. of CO, its use easily leads to poisoning of the platinum gas diffusion anode in the fuel cell. Also the hydrogen storage problems are still not solved. [on SciFinder (R)]