Development of portable fuel cell arrays with printed-circuit technology

Abstract Portable hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell power sources were constructed using printed-circuit board (PCB) technology. Multiple iterations of miniature planar fuel cell devices were prototyped, demonstrating fast cycle innovation and dramatic power density improvements in 200 W. The lightweight laminate PCB technology allows the best prototypes to achieve >700 mW/cm 2 area power density and >400 mW/cm 3 volumetric power density. PCB technology offers an intriguing platform for portable fuel cell development below 1 kW. Possibilities for on board diagnostics/control and further power density improvements are envisioned.