High-temperature fuel cells in prospect

[United Press International]

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., May 6 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers said they
have developed a new type of membrane that could help bring micro
fuel cells closer to realization.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratory said the polymer
electrolyte membrane, or PEM, could lead to fuel cells that use
diverse fuels such as glucose, methanol, and hydrogen. It could help
fill the need for new, uninterrupted autonomous power sources for
sensors, communications, microelectronics, healthcare applications,
and transportation, they said.
Using the PEM, the researchers found that new types of fuel
cells could operate as high as 140 degrees Celsius (about 285
degrees Fahrenheit). Such cells could deliver higher power outputs
using methanol and hydrogen as fuel.
"We see this ... material as having the potential of being
integrated into fuel cells ranging from microwatts to kilowatts,"
researchers said. "Such a broad power range means that this
(membrane) could be used in a fuel cell to power everything from
sensors, cell phones, laptops, and automobiles."