Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

Develop materials and components and optimize operating conditions of the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) for maximum power density and fuel conversion efficiency at a minimum cost. In particular:• Design and optimize membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs) to enhance cell performance.• Advance electrocatalysis of methanol oxidation and oxygen reduction to increase power density and lower total precious metal loading.• Characterize and optimize non-Nafion polymers with reduced crossover and improved performance.• Model, develop and demonstrate practical viability of advanced cell components.