It runs on a hydrogen fuel-cell system for marine use, which uses a fully indigenous Low Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (LT-PEM) fuel cell .
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel cell
- It makes electricity from hydrogen without burning it using a membrane.
- Its working principle involves an electrochemical reaction.
- Hydrogen enters the anode, where a catalyst splits it into protons (H⁺) and electrons (e⁻).
- Protons pass through the Proton Exchange Membrane, but electrons cannot.
- Electrons flow through an external circuit, generating electricity.
- Protons reach the cathode, where oxygen from the air is supplied.
- (Protons + electrons + oxygen) combine at the cathode to form water and a small amount of heat.
Advantages
- Zero Emissions: water is released as a byproduct.
- Delivers high power density and offers the advantages of low weight and volume compared with other fuel cells.
- Quick Start-Up: Operates at low temperature allowing them to start quickly and making it ideal for daily transport systems.
- Quiet Operation: No moving parts thus noise-free, smooth ride.
- High Efficiency: Converts hydrogen directly into electricity making it more efficient than combustion engines.
Associated challenges
- High Cost of Materials (especially precious-metal catalysts such as platinum)
- Availability of clean Hydrogen (generation can be energy intensive)
- Durability Issues (PEM can degrade over time, especially under high stress)