Abstract
Micro Direct Methanol Fuel cells (μDMFC) are of considerable interest for both academic laboratories and industries to commercialize, since the energy demand has been increased. Although intensive researches are conducted to understand μDMFC, many challenges still remain to be solved to exploit them for real commercial applications. The pros and cons of various substrate materials used and various designs fabricated so far for fuel delivery are highlighted. One of the existing problems is membrane swelling, which has been reduced by the polymer modification recently. The removal of evolved CO 2 gas in the anode and reduction of water flooding in the cathode are accomplished through the advanced materials fabrication is discussed. The important parameters such as fuel, water, air and thermal managements to increase cell performance by material manipulation and design are outlined in this review. A handful of companies are trying μDMFC technology toward real commercial strides. We have also presented an update of the achievements so far by these companies.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 8765-8786 |
Number of pages | 22 |
Journal | International Journal of Hydrogen Energy |
Volume | 37 |
Issue number | 10 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 1 2012 |
Keywords
- Hydrogen production
- Material fabrication
- Methanol
- Micro direct methanol fuel cell
- Polymer membranes
- Portable electronics
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
- Fuel Technology
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Energy Engineering and Power Technology