A Comprehensive Review of Fuel Cells and their Scope with Integrated Gasifier Systems

Abstract: The increasing global demand for clean, efficient, and sustainable energy systems has accelerated research and development in advanced power generation technologies. Fuel cells have emerged as a promising energy conversion technology due to their high efficiency, low emissions, modularity, and fuel flexibility. Simultaneously, gasification technology offers a viable route for converting solid and liquid carbonaceous fuels, including coal, biomass, and waste, into a clean gaseous fuel. The integration of fuel cells with gasifier systems represents a synergistic approach that combines the advantages of both technologies, enabling high-efficiency and low-emission power generation. This review paper presents a comprehensive overview of fuel cell technologies, their working principles, classifications, advantages, limitations, and applications. It further explores gasification technology, types of gasifiers, syngas composition, and gas cleanup requirements. Special emphasis is placed on the integration of gasifiers with fuel cells, system configurations, technical challenges, performance benefits, and future scope. The review highlights the potential of integrated gasifier-fuel cell systems as a key solution for sustainable and decentralized power generation. Keywords: Fuel Cell, Gasification, Integrated Gasifier Fuel Cell (IGFC), Syngas, Sustainable Energy, Clean Power Generation