How to Build a Simple Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Fuel cells convert different fuels directly into electricity. They use fuels such as methane, alcohol, gasoline or hydrogen. The cleanest source of electricity from these fuels is hydrogen because the only byproduct is clean water. Hydrogen fuel cells are being researched as a cleaner alternative fuel for cars and other forms of technology. Run your own test on hydrogen fuel cells by creating these fuel cells in their simplest form in your own home in just a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

• 2 6-inch pieces of platinum-coated nickel-plated wire
• 1 3-inch 10 (10d) penny nail
• 1 9-volt battery clip with 6-inch long leads
• Wire strippers
• 1 craft stick
• Tape
• Small jar full of water
• Volt meter
• 9-volt battery

Instructions

1. Cut two 6-inch long pieces of platinum-coated nickel-wire. Wrap one wire around a 3-inch, 10 penny (10d) nail to form a coil resembling the spring in an ink pen. Carefully remove the coil and repeat the step with the second piece of wire. This forms the electrodes of the fuel cell.

2. Cut the 6-inch leads on the 9-volt battery clip in half. Strip both ends of the cut wire. Strip a small section off the wire still attached to the battery clip. Attach the red battery clip lead and extra red wire to one electrode. Connect the black battery clip lead and the extra black wire to the other electrode.

3. Tape the electrodes to a craft stick. Lay the craft stick across the top of a small jar filled with water. Tape the craft stick to the sides of the jar. The electrodes should be hanging down into the water. Nothing else should touch the water.

4. Connect the red and black wires to the volt meter. Attach the red wire to the positive terminal and the black wire to the negative terminal.

5. Charge the fuel cell by touching a 9-volt battery to the battery clip for two or three seconds. Bubbles will form around the electrodes. The battery works with the electrodes to cause a process called electrolysis, which describes the splitting of the hydrogen and oxygen in the water.

6. Remove the battery and the platinum will continue working as a catalyst. The hydrogen and oxygen will join again and form water. In the process of forming the water, it produces electricity. The volt meter will display the voltage as the electricity is formed.

Tips & Warnings

• An adult should supervise the experiment.

• Pay careful attention to the wires and attach them in the correct places.

References

• NREL: Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Research