The use of hydrogen as a fuel source can be applied in two distinct ways in vehicles: for direct propulsion through a hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) or for generating electricity to charge a battery pack in an electric vehicle (EV). Here’s an analysis of the differences between these two applications:
Hydrogen Engine for Direct Propulsion:
Mechanism: A hydrogen ICE directly burns hydrogen in a process similar to a traditional gasoline engine, but with hydrogen as the fuel.
Energy Conversion: The chemical energy of hydrogen is converted into mechanical energy through combustion.
Efficiency: Generally, ICEs have lower efficiency due to energy losses in the form of heat during combustion.
Emissions: While hydrogen combustion mainly produces water vapor, NOx emissions can occur due to high combustion temperatures.
Hydrogen Engine Charging Battery Pack:
Mechanism: A hydrogen fuel cell converts hydrogen into electricity, which then charges the battery pack of an EV.
Energy Conversion: The chemical energy of hydrogen is converted into electrical energy through an electrochemical process in the fuel cell.
Efficiency: Fuel cells are typically more efficient than ICEs as they convert more of the hydrogen’s energy into usable electricity.
Emissions: Fuel cells emit only water vapor, making them a zero-emission source when the hydrogen is produced from renewable sources.
Key Differences:
Energy Storage: In a hydrogen ICE, the energy is stored as hydrogen gas and directly used for propulsion. In contrast, a hydrogen fuel cell stores energy in the form of hydrogen gas and converts it to electricity to charge batteries, which then power an electric motor.
Energy Density: Hydrogen has a high energy density by weight, making it suitable for long-range travel. However, the volume efficiency of hydrogen storage can be a challenge.
Vehicle Design: Vehicles with hydrogen ICEs are designed similarly to conventional vehicles, while those using hydrogen fuel cells are designed around the electric drivetrain.
Infrastructure: Refueling infrastructure for hydrogen ICEs would be similar to traditional fuel stations, whereas fuel cell vehicles require electric charging in addition to hydrogen refueling.
In summary, while both systems utilize hydrogen, they differ significantly in their energy conversion processes, efficiency, emissions, and vehicle design requirements. Hydrogen fuel cells paired with battery packs in EVs tend to offer higher efficiency and lower emissions compared to hydrogen ICEs, aligning with the global trend towards electrification of transportation12. However, the choice between the two may depend on specific use cases, availability of infrastructure, and advancements in technology.