Micro Fuel Cells

Book Description :

Today's consumers of portable electronics consumers are demanding devices not only deliver more power but also work healthy for the environment. This fact alone has lead major corporations like Intel, BIC, Duracell and Microsoft to believe that Microfuel Cells could be the next-generation power source for electronic products. Compact and readable, Microfuels Principles and Applications, offers engineers and product designers a reference unsurpassed by any other in the market. The book starts with a clear and rigorous exposition of the fundamentals engineering principles governing energy conversion for small electronic devices, followed by self-contained chapters concerning applications. The authors provide original points of view on all types of commercially available micro fuel cells types, including micro proton exchange membrane fuel cells, micro direct methanol fuel cells, micro solid oxide fuel cells and micro bio-fuel cells. The book also contains a detailed introduction to the fabrication of the components and the assembly of the system, making it a valuable reference both in terms of its application to product design and understanding micro engineering principles. *An overview of the micro fuel cell systems and applications. *A detailed introduction to the fabrication of the components and the assembly of the system. *Original points of view on prospects of micro fuel cells.

Book Description :

Fuel Cell Micro-grids describes an energy supply method based on a network of two or more proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEM-FC). Such a network enables the effective use of exhaust heat, the simplification of the transmission network, the possibility of backup during disruptive hazards and the consideration of regional factors. Furthermore, green energy and renewable energy systems can be connected to the network, to function in cooperation with the fuel cells. For these reasons, it is believed that an increasing number of applications will make use of such fuel cell energy networks. Fuel Cell Micro-grids analyses the operation plan of these new energy supply methods using genetic algorithms. The book explains the results of the analysis of the optimization operation plan, energy cost, and greenhouse gas discharge characteristics for many application cases of the fuel cell network.

Book Description :

This volume contains an archival record of the NATO Advanced Institute on Mini – Micro Fuel Cells – Fundamental and Applications held in Çesme – Izmir, Turkey, July 22–August 3, 2007. The ASIs are intended to be a high-level teaching activity in scientific and technical areas of current concern. In this volume, the reader may find interesting chapters on Mini- Micro Fuel Cells with fundamentals and applications. In recent years, fu- cell development, modeling and performance analysis has received much attention due to their potential for distributed power which is a critical issue for energy security and the environmental protection. Small fuel cells for portable applications are important for the security. The portable devices (many electronic and wireless) operated by fuel cells for providing all-day power, are very valuable for the security, for defense and in the war against terrorism. Many companies in NATO and non-NATO countries have concentrated to promote the fuel cell industry. Many universities with industrial partners committed to the idea of working together to develop fuel cells. As tech- logy advanced in the 1980s and beyond, many government organizations joined in spending money on fuel-cell research. In recent years, interest in using fuel cells to power portable electronic devices and other small equipment (cell phones, mobile phones, lab-tops, they are used as micro power source in biological applications) has increased partly due to the promise of fuel cells having higher energy density.

Book Description :

Fuel cells are clean and efficient energy conversion devices expected to be the next generation power source. During more than 17 decades of research and development, various types of fuel cells have been developed with a view to meet the different energy demands and application requirements. Scientists have devoted a great deal of time and effort

Book Description :

The Encyclopedia of Electrochemical Power Sources is a truly interdisciplinary reference for those working with batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers, supercapacitors, and photo-electrochemical cells. With a focus on the environmental and economic impact of electrochemical power sources, this five-volume work consolidates coverage of the field and serves as an entry point to the literature for professionals and students alike. Covers the main types of power sources, including their operating principles, systems, materials, and applications Serves as a primary source of information for electrochemists, materials scientists, energy technologists, and engineers Incorporates nearly 350 articles, with timely coverage of such topics as environmental and sustainability considerations

Book Description :

PEM Fuel Cell Testing and Diagnosis covers the recent advances in PEM (proton exchange membrane) fuel cell systems, focusing on instruments and techniques for testing and diagnosis, and the application of diagnostic techniques in practical tests and operation. This book is a unique source of electrochemical techniques for researchers, scientists and engineers working in the area of fuel cells. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are currently considered the most promising clean energy-converting devices for stationary, transportation, and micro-power applications due to their high energy density, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness. To advance research and development of this emerging technology, testing and diagnosis are an essential combined step. This book aids those efforts, addressing effects of humidity, temperature and pressure on fuel cells, degradation and failure analysis, and design and assembly of MEAs, single cells and stacks. Provides fundamental and theoretical principles for PEM fuel cell testing and diagnosis. Comprehensive source for selecting techniques, experimental designs and data analysis Analyzes PEM fuel cell degradation and failure mechanisms, and suggests failure mitigation strategies Provides principles for selecting PEM fuel cell key materials to improve durability

Book Description :

This book covers all the proposed fuel cell systems including PEMFC, SOFC, PAFC, MCFC, regenerative fuel cells, direct alcohol fuel cells, and small fuel cells to replace batteries.

Book Description :

Although, the basic concept of a fuel cell is quite simple, creating new designs and optimizing their performance takes serious work and a mastery of several technical areas. PEM Fuel Cell Modeling and Simulation Using Matlab, provides design engineers and researchers with a valuable tool for understanding and overcoming barriers to designing and building the next generation of PEM Fuel Cells. With this book, engineers can test components and verify designs in the development phase, saving both time and money. Easy to read and understand, this book provides design and modelling tips for fuel cell components such as: modelling proton exchange structure, catalyst layers, gas diffusion, fuel distribution structures, fuel cell stacks and fuel cell plant. This book includes design advice and MATLAB and FEMLAB codes for Fuel Cell types such as: polymer electrolyte, direct methanol and solid oxide fuel cells. This book also includes types for one, two and three dimensional modeling and two-phase flow phenomena and microfluidics. *Modeling and design validation techniques *Covers most types of Fuel Cell including SOFC *MATLAB and FEMLAB modelling codes *Translates basic phenomena into mathematical equations

Book Description :

Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Technology presents the overall progress witnessed in the field of DMFC over the past decade, highlighting the components, materials, functions, properties and features, designs and configurations, operations, modelling, applications, pros and cons, social, political and market penetration, economics and future directions. The book discusses every single aspect of DMFC device technology, the associated advantages and drawbacks of state-of-the-art materials and design, market opportunities and commercialization aspects, and possible future directions of research and development. This book, containing critical analyses and opinions from experts around the world, will garner considerable interest among actual users/scientists/experts. Analyzes developments of membrane electrolytes, electrodes, catalysts, catalyst supports, bipolar plates, gas diffusion layers and flow channels as critical components of direct methanol fuel cells Includes modeling of direct methanol fuel cells to understand their scaling up potentials Discusses commercial aspects of direct methanol fuel cells in terms of market penetration, end application, cost, viability, reliability, social and commercial perception, drawbacks and prospects

Book Description :

Fuel cells, Energy technology, Direct energy conversion, Electric cells, Electrochemical devices, Chemical reactions, Electric power generation, Electrical safety, Equipment safety, Safety measures, Hazards, Containers, Emission, Hydrogen, Type testing

Book Description :

Portable Hydrogen Energy Systems: Fuel Cells and Storage Fundamentals and Applications covers the basics of portable fuel cells, their types, possibilities for fuel storage, in particular for hydrogen as fuel, and their potential application. The book explores electrochemistry, types, and materials and components, but also includes a chapter on the particularities of their use in portable devices, with a focus on proton exchange membrane (PEM) type. Topics cover fuel storage for these cells, in particular hydrogen storage and an analysis of current possibilities. In addition, portable fuel cell systems are examined, covering auxiliary elements required for operation and possibilities for their miniaturization. Engineers and developers of portable applications and electricity will find this book to provide fundamental information on the possibilities of portable hydrogen fuel cells, including costs and market information, for their planning, modeling, development and deployment. Graduate students and lecturers will find this to be a complementary resource in general hydrogen and fuel cell courses or in specialized courses covering portable systems. Presents a current view of the fundamentals and possibilities of portable hydrogen fuel cells, also comparing them with other market solutions, such as batteries Examines the applications where portable hydrogen fuel cell technology is a viable solution Explores future trends and needs in terms of materials, components and systems to improve the possibilities to make hydrogen fuel cells competitive and reliable for future portable applications

Book Description :

Micro fuel cells are currently being investigated as replacement for both primary and secondary batteries. While many technological challenges remain in micro he1 cell research, the key issue for all micro he1 cells is the volume of the system. While significant advances have been made in reducing the number and size of required components, the cell itself is difficult to miniaturize. Many researchers have attempted to apply different variants of micro fabrication techniques to the fabrication of micro fuel cells. We have elected to pursue an unusual inside-out architecture, where the membrane is used as a substrate, and thick and thn film depositions are used to create the active layers of the cell itself By using a combination of analytical and h t e element analysis techniques, we were able to derive practical values for critical parameters including: the hydraulic hameter; electrode length; gas diffusion layer conductivity and porosity; and operating temperature of the he1 cell with respect to the environment. These values were used to create a new he1 cell fabrication technique and architecture, which used a hybrid fabrication technique where the tool and die were fabricated using micro fabrication techniques, but the cell itself was fabricated using traditional manufacturing techniques. To successfdly fabricate these designs, a new stable supported membrane, and a particle based castable diffusion layer were required. These new materials had unusual mechanical properties, as well as their desired electrochemical properties. Testing the cell we found performance significantly lower than predicted. We traced the performance shortfall to a lower than required cathode GDL conductivity and porosity. Significant advances in GDL material design will be required to maximize the potential of the cell architecture.

Book Description :

The book provides a systematic and profound account of scientific challenges in fuel cell research. The introductory chapters bring readers up to date on the urgency and implications of the global energy challenge, the prospects of electrochemical energy conversion technologies, and the thermodynamic and electrochemical principles underlying the operation of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. The book then presents the scientific challenges in fuel cell research as a systematic account of distinct components, length scales, physicochemical processes, and scientific disciplines. The main part of the book focuses on theory and modeling. Theoretical tools and approaches, applied to fuel cell research, are presented in a self-contained manner. Chapters are arranged by different fuel cell materials and components, and sections advance through the hierarchy of scales, starting from molecular-level processes in proton-conducting media or electrocatalytic systems and ending with performance issues at the device level, including electrochemical performance, water management, durability, and analysis of failure mechanisms. Throughout, the book gives numerous examples of formidable scientific challenges as well as of tools to facilitate materials design and development of diagnostic methods. It reveals reserves for performance improvements and uncovers misapprehensions in scientific understanding that have misled or may continue to mislead technological development. An indispensable resource for scientifically minded and practically oriented researchers, this book helps industry leaders to appreciate the contributions of fundamental research, and leaders of fundamental research to appreciate the needs of industry.

Book Description :

This limited edition Micro Fuel Cells self-assessment will make you the dependable Micro Fuel Cells domain specialist by revealing just what you need to know to be fluent and ready for any Micro Fuel Cells challenge. How do I reduce the effort in the Micro Fuel Cells work to be done to get problems solved? How can I ensure that plans of action include every Micro Fuel Cells task and that every Micro Fuel Cells outcome is in place? How will I save time investigating strategic and tactical options and ensuring Micro Fuel Cells opportunity costs are low? How can I deliver tailored Micro Fuel Cells advise instantly with structured going-forward plans? There's no better guide through these mind-expanding questions than acclaimed best-selling author Gerard Blokdyk. Blokdyk ensures all Micro Fuel Cells essentials are covered, from every angle: the Micro Fuel Cells self-assessment shows succinctly and clearly that what needs to be clarified to organize the business/project activities and processes so that Micro Fuel Cells outcomes are achieved. Contains extensive criteria grounded in past and current successful projects and activities by experienced Micro Fuel Cells practitioners. Their mastery, combined with the uncommon elegance of the self-assessment, provides its superior value to you in knowing how to ensure the outcome of any efforts in Micro Fuel Cells are maximized with professional results. Your purchase includes access to the $249 value Micro Fuel Cells self-assessment dashboard download which gives you your dynamically prioritized projects-ready tool and shows your organization exactly what to do next. Your exclusive instant access details can be found in your book.

Book Description :

Today's commercial, medical and military electronics are becoming smaller and smaller. At the same time these devices demand more power and currently this power requirement is met almost exclusively by battery power. This book includes coverage of ceramic hybrid separators for micro fuel cells and miniature fuel cells built with LTCC technology. It also covers novel fuel cells and discusses the application of fuel cell in microelectronics.

Book Description :

Nanotechnology in Fuel Cells focuses on the use of nanotechnology in macroscopic and nanosized fuel cells to enhance their performance and lifespan. The book covers the fundamental design concepts and promising applications of nanotechnology-enhanced fuel cells and their advantages over traditional fuel cells in portable devices, including longer shelf life and lower cost. In the case of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), nano-membranes could provide 100 times higher conductivity of hydrogen ions in low humidity conditions than traditional membranes. For hydrogen fuel cell, nanocatalysts (Pt hybrid nanoparticles) could provide 12 times higher catalytic activity. This is an important reference source for materials scientists and engineers who are looking to understand how nanotechnology is being used to create more efficient macro- and nanosized fuel cells. Outlines how fuel cells can be nanoengineered to enhance their performance and lifespan Covers a variety of fuel cell types, including proton-exchange membrane fuel cells and hydrogen-based fuel cells Assesses the major challenges of nanoengineering fuel cells at an industrial scale

Book Description :

This book discusses key aspects of MEMS technology areas, organized in twenty-seven chapters that present the latest research developments in micro electronic and mechanical systems. The book addresses a wide range of fundamental and practical issues related to MEMS, advanced metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) and complementary MOS (CMOS) devices, SoC technology, integrated circuit testing and verification, and other important topics in the field. ?Several chapters cover state-of-the-art microfabrication techniques and materials as enabling technologies for the microsystems. Reliability issues concerning both electronic and mechanical aspects of these devices and systems are also addressed in various chapters.

Book Description :

Fuel cells, Energy technology, Direct energy conversion, Electric cells, Electrochemical devices, Chemical reactions, Electric power generation, Electrical safety, Equipment safety, Safety measures, Hazards, Containers, Emission, Hydrogen, Type testing, Water

Book Description :

Fuel cells, Energy technology, Direct energy conversion, Electric cells, Electrochemical devices, Chemical reactions, Electric power generation, Containers, Interchangeability, Compatibility, Dimensions, Liquid fuels, Gases, Filling, Pipe connections

Book Description :

In the context of wastewater treatment, Bioelectrochemical Systems (BESs) have gained considerable interest in the past few years, and several BES processes are on the brink of application to this area. This book, written by a large number of world experts in the different sub-topics, describes the different aspects and processes relevant to their development. Bioelectrochemical Systems (BESs) use micro-organisms to catalyze an oxidation and/or reduction reaction at an anodic and cathodic electrode respectively. Briefly, at an anode oxidation of organic and inorganic electron donors can occur. Prime examples of such electron donors are waste organics and sulfides. At the cathode, an electron acceptor such as oxygen or nitrate can be reduced. The anode and the cathode are connected through an electrical circuit. If electrical power is harvested from this circuit, the system is called a Microbial Fuel Cell; if electrical power is invested, the system is called a Microbial Electrolysis Cell. The overall framework of bio-energy and bio-fuels is discussed. A number of chapters discuss the basics – microbiology, microbial ecology, electrochemistry, technology and materials development. The book continues by highlighting the plurality of processes based on BES technology already in existence, going from wastewater based reactors to sediment based bio-batteries. The integration of BESs into existing water or process lines is discussed. Finally, an outlook is provided of how BES will fit within the emerging biorefinery area.