Advances in selected fuel cell technologies: summary of a panel session presentation

The presentation focuses on two types of fuel cells: solid-oxide and direct-methanol. Solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems, based on either a tubular or planar electrode configuration, operate in the temperature range of 750 to 1,000 degrees C and were reviewed in 2004. This session provides updates on prior SOFC material and introduce two new early-stage SOFC technology developments. Direct-methanol fuel cell (DMFC) systems do not require a reformer to produce the hydrogen-rich fuel needed by most low-temperature fuel-cell systems, DMFC systems are being developed in a wide range of sizes, from laptop and cellular phone batteries to electric vehicle units. This presentation describes the basic design and characteristics of DMFC systems in development for residential and commercial applications.