The Self-Adaptive Fuel Supply Mechanism in Micro DMFC Based on the Microvalve

Passive Small Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells for Low-Power Portable Applications: Assessment Based on Innovative Increments since 2018

Passive small direct alcohol fuel cells (PS-DAFCs) are compact, standalone devices capable of electrochemically converting the chemical energy in the fuel/alcohol into electricity, with low pollutant emissions and high energy density. Thus, PS-DAFCs are extremely attractive as sustainable/green off-grid low-power sources (milliwatts to watts), considered as alternatives to batteries for small/portable electric and electronic devices. PS-DAFCs benefit from long life operation and low cost, assuring an efficient and stable supply of inherent non-polluting electricity. This review aims to assess innovations on PS-DAFC technology, as well as discuss the challenges and R&D needs covered on practical examples reported in the scientific literature, since 2018. Hence, this compilation intends to be a guidance tool to researchers, in order to help PS-DAFCs overcome the barriers to a broad market introduction and consequently become prime renewable energy converters and autonomous micropower generators. Only by translating research discoveries into the scale-up and commercialization process of the technology can the best balance between the economic and technical issues such as efficiency, reliability, and durability be achieved. In turn, this will certainly play a crucial role in determining how PS-DAFCs can meet pressing sustainable energy needs.

Micro Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Based on Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite Electrode

The effect of an anode composite electrode on the performance of a micro direct methanol fuel cell (μDMFC) is analyzed from sample preparation configurations and discussed in detail, with a specific focus on the catalyst layer and the micro-porous layer on the anode composite electrode. This study investigates the effects of Pt content, Pt-Ru molar ratio, Nafion content, catalyst support, and preparation method in the catalyst layer, along with the carbon loading and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE )content in the micro-porous layer, on the performance of the anode composite electrode. The results show that the anode composite electrode delivers the best performance with 30% Pt content, a 1:1.5 Pt-Ru molar ratio, 10% Nafion content on reduced graphene oxide as the catalyst support. The synthesis is optimized with the impregnation reduction method using NaBH₄ as the reducing agent, with the addition of 1.5 mg/cm² carbon loading and 5% PTFE.