Fuel cells are devices that convert fuel into electricity using a chemical reaction involving oxygen or another oxidizing agent. Unlike batteries, fuel cells need constant supplies of the fuel and of oxygen. But as long as those are supplied, the fuel cell can produce electricity continually. The fuel they use might be hydrogen, natural gas or methanol.
The most famous early use of fuel cells was creating power for NASA space capsules, satellites and probes. Today they can be found in various commercial and industrial buildings, particularly in out-of-the-way or hard-to-access areas. Fuel cells can power virtually any vehicle, including cars, boats and forklifts. A recent article from Fuel Cell Today, published online at https://www.fuelcelltoday.com/ , poses the question of whether or not successful utilization of fuel cells in regions including the U.S. materials handling equipment industry will spread to other parts of the world.
