Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Press Release
Questions on DMFC
We answer various questions about DMFC in this page.
As for “Basic System” or “Usability” of DMFC, please go to the topic of “What’s Fuel Cell ?”.
Q : What are the target devices of DMFC ?
| A : | DMFC will be used for various mobile devices such as cellular phones and MP3 music players. |
Q : What are the usability differences compared to Lithium ion battery ?
| A : | DMFC is a small generator. Methanol can be added in a few seconds and refilled even while the device is in operation. Compared to LiB, which takes a lot of time to charge , DMFC can start generation soon after fuel is added so the device can be used continuously without access to an electric socket. Utilizing these features, DMFC will prevail among the devices which are required to operate for a long time. |
Q : Is there any progress for the deregulation of carrying fuel cell and methanol into the aircraft cabin ?
| A : | ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) has allowed the use of DMFC devices in airplanes starting in January 2007. After the rule for each country is deregulated, the full potential of DMFC on long airplane rides will be reached. On the other hand, refilling cartridge and other DMFC charging devices are still forbidden as carry on items. We expect more deregulation from each country as people learn more about the benefits of DMFC. |
Q : Is it safe to use methanol ?
| A : | We highly consider safety, and trying to come up to the international standard of IEC which in now under examination. It will require for the both DMFC devices and cartridges never to leak fuel while using devices. Besides, for cartridges, it will also require never to leak fuel during transportation and custody. |
Q : Where are you planning to sell methanol cartridges ?
| A : | We can't reveal the detailed information at this time. We are preparing sales usability, but it will be influenced by deregulations and standardizations within each region/country. |
Q : Why did Toshiba choose DMFC over other types of fuel cells such as PEFC ?
| A : | It is important to find a fuel cell type that can be used with small devices and made safely. There are challenges with other fuel types. For example, hydrogen fuel cells require a high-presser container or solid metal hydride to prevent leakage, and as a result requiring more space, making them unsuitable for small mobile devices. Toshiba has developed DMFC structures that are comparably easier to make, with energy densities suitable for smaller space requirements. |
Q : Are there any substances produced after generation ?
| A : | Humid air and CO2 are produced.
But the amount is so small and it bares little environmental impact. For example, in case of DMFC embedded cellular phone would exhaust almost the same amount of humid air and CO2 as a small bird. It has been mentioned that DMFC is clean energy because it never exhausts NOx and SOx, which can be exhausted by thermal power generation. |
