Summary Draft 1 + thesis

Topic: Hyundai Fuel Cell Technology 

Hyundai Nexo 2019 model 
How a fuel cell engine works 


Michigan Tech's article "An Energy Breakthrough: Tech Researchers Create New Type of Fuel Cell"(2023) states that hydrogen fuel cells are making advancements and have a role in making clean energy for the world. Fuel cells emit zero emissions, and it is highly efficient as they require less energy to convert to electrical energy. The efficiency rate for fuel cells is 60% whereas for normal fuel engines is at 30 to 35%.  According to the Hyundai Motor Company press conference (2023), Hydrogen can be produced by renewable sources like wind, solar and biomass. it is deemed to be a renewable hydrogen potential. It is also versatile as it can power cars, trucks, and stationary power plants in the future. As for refuelling, it takes about 8 minutes to be fully powered whereas else it takes about 20 minutes for an Electric Vehicle (EV) to charge up.
   
However, there are disadvantages like production costs and transportation. According to the article by Hyundai Motor Company (2023), It takes 1.1 billion dollars to produce just 2 systems of hydrogen fuel cell plants. It requires costly materials like platinum. There will also be a challenge to store and transport as hydrogen is flammable and one of the lightest elements. Any leaks from the tanks and improper care can cause an explosion. It can only be transported in High-pressure tanks and cryogenic tanks, and this can be costly. A specialized refuelling infrastructure is needed for fuel cells, but such infrastructure is uncommon in southeast Asia like Singapore. Singapore has shown interest in this technology, but the necessary infrastructure is yet to be developed.  To produce hydrogen using electrolysis requires lots of energy. Electrolysis is the process in which water splits into oxygen and hydrogen. However, this process does not come from renewable sources, and it may undermine the purpose of clean energy.  

In conclusion, hydrogen fuel cells are a promising alternative choice to traditional sources like fuel. However, the Technical and economic challenges are still the problems that we face, and advancements in technology will occur in countries with limited technology. As more nations become interested in this innovative technology, there might be more potential to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. 


Thesis Statement: Hydrogen fuel cells could help revolutionise clean energy but without significant technological advancements to infrastructure, and cost, their potential will remain unrealised.   
       

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