The growing interest in hydrogen fuel cell drones, which utilize hydrogen as a fuel source, has been fueled by their high energy density, enabling flights of over two hours, and the environmental benefits of using clean energy. Conventional drones using lithium-ion or lithium-polymer fuel cells have faced limitations such as short flight times of 10 to 30 minutes per charge and environmental pollution due to discarded batteries. How promising is hydrogen as an energy carrier, not only for drones but also for vehicles and ships?

The recently published book by Sungandang, titled 'Design and Maintenance of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Drones,' seeks to answer this question. The book begins by examining the concepts of fuel cells and various types of fuel cells (Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFC), Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC), Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFC), Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells (MCFC), Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC), and Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC)), along with their distinctions and characteristics.

It explains the concepts of hydrogen and hydrogen fuel cell principles. The book covers everything from the design, assembly, management, to maintenance for hydrogen fuel cell drones. It delves into safety aspects and includes information on hydrogen liquefaction, liquefaction equipment, hydrogen fuel cell-related components, and related industries.

Concerns about environmental and climate warming issues due to carbon emissions from fossil fuels used as energy carriers have led to familiar terms like 'carbon neutrality,' 'carbon zero,' and 'carbon tax.'

Living in an era where energy significantly influences the economy, with concerns about factors such as fuel shortages during conflicts or import restrictions, alternative and environmentally friendly energy sources are gaining attention worldwide. This book, authored by experts from drone specialists like Hogreen Air and Hexa, as well as professors from Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) and Chonnam National University, aims to balance the introduction of hydrogen fuel cells and drones to nurture future generations.

Additionally, the book includes an appendix covering hydrogen drone-related terminology, explaining gray hydrogen, green hydrogen, blue hydrogen, turquoise hydrogen, and more. It also provides information on drone-related employment, including the Industrial Drone Skills Competition hosted by the Korea Industrial Human Resources Development Institute.

This forward-looking book serves as a comprehensive guide for both the drone industry and next-generation energy hydrogen, making it a valuable resource for study and employment in these fields.