Optimization of Direct Methanol Fuel Cells: An Experimental Approach

Recently, fuel cells have gained significant attention for their capability of producing power with different fuels at reduced levels of carbon dioxide emissions. Of the many options of fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are considered promising candidates for stationary and small portable power applications. However, there are numerous technical barriers preventing more widespread use of DMFCs, primarily the crossing over of unreacted fuel through the membrane and the slow reaction kinetics on the anode. This work provides a comprehensive experimental approach to optimizing the cell as a whole. First, various methods of reducing fuel crossover are considered. Then, various anode catalysts are evaluated for performance characteristics. The cathode is also considered through the use of platinum metal group (PGM) free catalysts. Finally, the fabrication of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is optimized by examining various methods of catalyst ink deposition on the substrate. By taking a comprehensive approach, this work provides a pathway for the fabrication of DMFCs capable of enhanced power densities and reduced fuel crossover by using a variety of techniques.