Compact bipolar plate-free direct methanol fuel cell stacks.

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are promising for portable power.
• Bipolar plates add complexity and cost to fuel cell stacks.
• Developing efficient electrode materials is crucial for DMFC performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the performance of a bipolar plate-free fuel cell stack.
• To evaluate the discharge properties of PtAu/C anodes and Pr-doped Mn(2)O(3)/C cathodes.
• To assess the feasibility of simplified fuel cell stack construction.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a three-cell fuel cell stack using PtAu/C anode and Pr-doped Mn(2)O(3)/C cathode.
• Operation in an aqueous methanol solution with air bubbling.
• Measurement of stack voltage and power output during discharge.

Main Results:

• A three-cell stack achieved a stack voltage of 2330 mV.
• The stack demonstrated a power output of 21 mW.
• The absence of a bipolar plate did not impede functionality.

Conclusions:

• A bipolar plate-free fuel cell stack with PtAu/C and Pr-doped Mn(2)O(3)/C electrodes is feasible.
• This configuration offers a simplified approach to fuel cell stack assembly.
• The results highlight potential for cost-effective and compact fuel cell development.