Several things stand in the way of hydrogen fuel cells becoming widely used. Is it easy or difficult to store enough hydrogen to fuel a car? Is the technology expensive or cheap? Is the infrastructure present?
To determine whether storing enough hydrogen to fuel a car is easy or difficult, whether the technology is expensive or cheap, and whether the infrastructure is present, we can look into each aspect individually.
1. Storing enough hydrogen:
Hydrogen is typically stored in two main forms: compressed gas and cryogenic liquid. Storing hydrogen as a compressed gas requires high-pressure tanks, which can take up a significant amount of space. However, advancements in materials and engineering have made it easier to store compressed hydrogen. Storing hydrogen as a cryogenic liquid necessitates extremely low temperatures, making it more challenging and potentially less practical for vehicle storage. Overall, while storing enough hydrogen for a car may be more complex than traditional fuels, it is achievable with proper infrastructure.
2. Technology cost:
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is relatively expensive compared to conventional internal combustion engines or battery electric vehicles. This cost is primarily due to the expensive materials required for fuel cells, such as platinum catalysts, as well as the complexity of the system. However, as the technology progresses and production scales up, the cost is expected to decline, making it more affordable in the future.
3. Infrastructure:
One major challenge for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles is the lack of an extensive refueling infrastructure. Unlike gasoline or diesel stations, hydrogen refueling stations are still relatively scarce, primarily concentrated in select regions. This limited infrastructure poses a barrier to widespread adoption since access to refueling stations is essential for practical vehicle use. However, efforts are being made to expand the hydrogen infrastructure, particularly in areas where hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are gaining traction.
In summary, while storing enough hydrogen for cars can pose challenges, advancements are being made to make it more feasible. The technology is currently expensive but expected to become more affordable in the future. However, the infrastructure for hydrogen fueling stations is limited and requires further development for widespread adoption.