Do hydrogen fuel cells need platinum?

Hydrogen-fuel-cell technology, however, relies on platinum, which can withstand higher temperatures than other metals. A fuel cell needs platinum for the catalyst that separates hydrogen into protons and electrons, which then generate the electrical current, making it an alternative to battery-powered vehicles.

What happens to the platinum in a fuel cell?

In a fuel cell, platinum is used two ways — to convert hydrogen into protons and electrons, and to break oxygen bonds and eventually form water. First, they tweaked the shape of the platinum to maximize its availability and reactivity in the catalyst.

How much platinum is in a fuel cell?

The average amount of a platinum in a hydrogen fuel cell, according to Reuters’ conversations with analysts, is between 30 and 60 grams. Diesel catalytic converters, on the other hand, only use between 3 and 7 grams of the shiny stuff.

Is platinum used to make hydrogen?

Hydrogen created through the electrolysis of water is referred to as “green” hydrogen, and platinum is used as a catalyst in the electrolysis process. “Gray,” or traditional, hydrogen power generation uses natural gas.

Why does hydrogen ignite with platinum?

As for why this happens, it has to do with how platinum metal binds to hydrogen atoms. Hydrogen gas (H2) adsorbs (“sticks”) to platinum metal, which causes the H-H bond to break as two H-Pt bonds form. This makes it easier to remove an electron from each H atom, generating two H+ from H2.

How does platinum oxidize hydrogen?

Hydrogen molecules will adsorb to the platinum surface. The separate hydrogen atoms are then free to react at the surface or leave the surface and participate in the water forming steps.

Is platinum used in hydrogen production?

Platinum-based materials are used as a standard catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction.