Overview on the challenges and developments of micro-direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC)

Interests in the feasibility of micro-direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) for commercialization, especially in the portable applications area, have encouraged the R&D sections in companies and institutions to create a better, simpler and more economical prototype. Despite the increase in knowledge on how to handle this type of cells, many challenges still remain to be conquered. There is also the question of individuality for each prototype created, which is similar to what is faced in MEMS with its lack of a single driving market, and until one dominant application can be established, fuel cell designs will continue to evolve and bringing with each of them a host of pros and cons. This paper will draw out the current challenges and development of micro-DMFC. Besides that, this paper will also show some marketing prediction in term of economics view. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.