Life cycle assessment of solid oxide fuel cells and polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells: A review

Fuel cells (FCs) are among the key technologies that Europe will have to rely on in order to comply with the most recent environmental targets inspired by decarbonization and circular economy. The assessment of the real advantages of using FCs for producing energy must include a reliable analysis of the energy and environmental impacts during the life cycle of these systems, including the raw material supply, production, use, and disposal. In this context, the life cycle assessment (LCA) is a well-established methodology for assessing the eco-profile of products and services and for identifying the components and the life cycle steps having the largest contribution to energy and environmental impacts. In this chapter, the authors focus on the analysis of two types of FCs: solid oxide FCs and polymer electrolyte membrane FCs. The authors describe the FC technology, the sectors of application, and the FC materials and components. A literature review of available LCA researches is also discussed to point out the environmental impacts of the FCs and the methodological issues that can arise in the study of a FC.