Semi-activate supplies of zigzag-type DMFCs with the channel paths

Abstract

The power consumption of portable devices such as smartphones and notebook PCs has been increasing in recent years as the performance of these devices has advanced. Consequently, a power supply with a higher energy density is required. Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) have a theoretical energy density that is ten or more times greater than that of the current lithium ion batteries, which makes them candidate power sources for such devices. However, the configuration of a plurality of cells in current DMFCs is too complex. To simplify the manufacturing process for DMFCs, we have previously proposed a zigzag-type structure. This type of structure can be problematic with regard to maintaining an adequate supply of air and methanol. In the present study, the effect of an active supply method for either reactant on the DFMC characteristics is investigated.