Explanation – Recently, ISRO successfully tested a 100 W Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Power System (FCPS) on the orbital platform POEM3. The aims were to evaluate the functioning of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel cells in space and gather data to support the design of systems for upcoming missions.

Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells, also called proton exchange membrane fuel cells, use a proton-conducting polymer membrane as the electrolyte. Hydrogen is typically used as the fuel.

These cells operate at relatively low temperatures and can quickly vary their output to meet shifting power demands. They are being developed mainly for transport applications, as well as for stationary and portable fuel-cell applications.

Source: Forum IAS