Progress and perspectives in micro direct methanol fuel cell

Micro Direct Methanol Fuel cells (μDMFC) are of considerable interest for both academic laboratories and industries to commercialize, since the energy demand has been increased. Although intensive researches are conducted to understand μDMFC, many challenges still remain to be solved to exploit them for real commercial applications. The pros and cons of various substrate materials used and various designs fabricated so far for fuel delivery are highlighted. One of the existing problems is membrane swelling, which has been reduced by the polymer modification recently. The removal of evolved CO2 gas in the anode and reduction of water flooding in the cathode are accomplished through the advanced materials fabrication is discussed. The important parameters such as fuel, water, air and thermal managements to increase cell performance by material manipulation and design are outlined in this review. A handful of companies are trying μDMFC technology toward real commercial strides. We have also presented an update of the achievements so far by these companies.

► Micro direct methanol fuel cells for portable applications. ► Improved cell performance by polymer, catalyst and substrate materials manipulations. ► Water, air and thermal management to increase cell performance. ► Polymer modification to overcome membrane swelling and reduce cost. ► Efficient removal of CO2 by improved microchannel design, thermal and geometric effects.