Since publication of the first edition of Fuel Cell Systems Explained three compelling drivers
have supported the continuing development of fuel cell technology. These are: the need to
maintain energy security in an energy-hungry world the desire to move towards zero-emission
vehicles and power plants and the mitigation of climate change by lowering of CO2 emissions.
New fuel cell materials enhanced stack performance and increased lifetimes are leading to the
emergence of the first truly commercial systems in applications that range from fork-lift
trucks to power sources for mobile phone towers. Leading vehicle manufacturers have embraced
the use of electric drive-trains and now see hydrogen fuel cells complementing advanced battery
technology in zero-emission vehicles. After many decades of laboratory development a global
but fragile fuel cell industry is bringing the first commercial products to market. This
thoroughly revised edition includes several new sections devoted to for example fuel cell
characterisation improved materials for low-temperature hydrogen and liquid-fuelled systems
and real-world technology implementation. Assuming no prior knowledge of fuel cell technology
the third edition comprehensively brings together all of the key topics encompassed in this
diverse field. Practitioners researchers and students in electrical power chemical and
automotive engineering will continue to benefit from this essential guide to the principles
design and implementation of fuel cell systems.
