Fuel cells are sensitive to contaminants. Even small levels of certain compounds can reduce performance or accelerate degradation.
Common contamination categories
* CO (carbon monoxide): poisons platinum catalysts, reducing reaction efficiency
* Sulfur compounds: strongly poison catalysts even at low concentrations
* Ammonia / nitrogen compounds: can affect membrane conductivity and catalyst layers
* Particulates/oils/silicones: can block pores and impair diffusion layers
* Moisture and aerosols: can contribute to flooding or uneven hydration
Practical guidance for general audiences
* Use hydrogen quality appropriate to your fuel cell type and application
* Avoid “unknown” hydrogen sources for sensitive stacks
* Include filtration and good plumbing practices
* Treat purge/vent routing as a design requirement, not an afterthought