Direct Methanol Fuel Cells for Low-Power Applications

Direct methanol fuel cells integrated with fuel reservoirs have been proposed as power sources in applications that involve power demands up to about 50 W. A prior concept of direct methanol fuel cells as alternatives to re- chargeable batteries in such applications was reported previously in “Miniature Fuel Cells for Small, Portable Electronic Devices” (NPO-21066), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 26, No. 8 (August 2002), page 30. The prior concept called for the fuel (a methanol/water solution) to be supplied from reservoirs outside the fuel cells. The present concept would eliminate the need for separate reservoirs, thereby reducing bulk and complexity and increasing convenience of use.