Electrochemical Cell

The optimization of cell design in order to save energy while guaranteeing a high product quality is a continuous task. Some of the general requirements of cell design are:

Simple modular design applicable to high current densities
Large specific electrode area
Low ohmic losses
Applicable to multiphase systems
Reliable operation with low maintenance
Easy to scale-up

Basic components in an electrochemical cell

Planar electrodes (X and Y) made of electrically conductive materials: metals, carbon, composites ...
Reference electrodes (A, B, C) in electrolytic contact with an electrolyte trough Luggin capillaries
The cell itself or container made of an inert material: glass, Plexiglass, ...
An electrolyte (solution containing ions)

Electrical energy does not exist naturally in any convenient form and it must be converted from some other energy form when needed. Chemical energy is the most practical source and is generally used in one of two ways. Fuel can be burnt in a heat engine, such as a petrol or diesel engine, or a gas turbine, which then drives an electrical generator. This process is inherently inefficient. Unconstrained by the thermodynamic limits of combustion or limitations of the Carnot cycle, fuel cells can use 40 percent less fuel than a contemporary power-generation system.

Another contributing factor that influence fuel cell efficiency is that, unlike a conventional power plant, the fuel cell has no moving parts and does not require the mechanical energy of a rotating shaft, or lubrication. Chemical energy can also be stored in two other types of electrochemical power sources:

Primary cells or batteries, which are used once, then discarded
Secondary cells or batteries, which can be discharged and recharged many times. In theory, many electrochemical reactions are reversible. In practice, only a few systems are worthwhile and safe

Electrochemical Cell

See also: Conductivity cell, Corrosion cell definition, Daniell cell, Impressed current cathodic protection system, Natural corrosion cells, Rotating cylinder test cell, Sacrificial anode cathodic protection