A PEM is a thin, plastic-like film that facilitates the transport of hydrogen ions from anode to cathode. Several automobile manufacturers have built prototype fuel cell cars that depend on PEM technology. Also known as Polymer Electrolyte Membrane.

Also called polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. A type of fuel cell in which the exchange of protons (H+) from the anode to the cathode via a membrane is involved in the chemical reaction producing electricity. The electrolyte is a called proton exchange membrane ( PEM). The fuel cells typically run at low temperatures (100ºC) and pressures ( 5 atm). Click here to see how it works.

A type of acid-based fuel cell in which the exchange of protons (H+) from the anode to the cathode is achieved by a solid, water-swollen membrane electrolyte impregnated with a strong acid. The fuel cells typically run at low temperatures (100OC) and pressures (5 atm). Anode Reaction: H2 Æ 2H+ + 2e- Cathode Reaction: _O2 + 2H+ + 2e- Æ H2O Overall Reaction: H2 + _O2 Æ H2O search