Transport in proton conductors for fuel-cell applications: Simulations, elementary reactions, and phenomenology

In fuel cells, the electrolyte is the component that effectively separates the anode and cathode gases and/or liquids and mediates the electrochemical reaction occurring at the electrodes through conducting a specific ion at very high rates during the operation of the fuel cell. This review discusses the transport properties of presently available and emerging materials that have the potential to be used as the electrolyte for fuel cells soon. Strategies for the development of novel materials with transport properties approaching those of an ideal separator are also covered.