Design of Direct Methanol Micro Fuel Cell Fluidic Systems

Direct methanol micro fuel cells offer higher power density than advanced batteries. In this system, micro scale fluid handling becomes necessary. Designs of advanced microfluidic systems including micro valves, pumps and CO2 Gas bubble-Liquid separators, and flow channels are provided. MEMS-based special fabrication processes are utilized. Since all the fluidic components are fabricated with a common procedure, they are all fabricated together on the same silicon wafer at the same time. This assures the full fluidic system integration, which shall reduce the cost and enhance the reliability of the direct methanol micro fuel cell system.Copyright © 2002 by ASME