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Passive Small Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells for Low-Power Portable Applications: Assessment Based on Innovative Increments since 2018

Author

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  • Maria H. de Sá

    (CIQUP—Chemistry Research Centre of the University of Porto, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
    CEFT—Transport Phenomena Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal)

  • Alexandra M. F. R. Pinto

    (CEFT—Transport Phenomena Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
    ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal)

  • Vânia B. Oliveira

    (CEFT—Transport Phenomena Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
    ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal)

Abstract

Passive small direct alcohol fuel cells (PS-DAFCs) are compact, standalone devices capable of electrochemically converting the chemical energy in the fuel/alcohol into electricity, with low pollutant emissions and high energy density. Thus, PS-DAFCs are extremely attractive as sustainable/green off-grid low-power sources (milliwatts to watts), considered as alternatives to batteries for small/portable electric and electronic devices. PS-DAFCs benefit from long life operation and low cost, assuring an efficient and stable supply of inherent non-polluting electricity. This review aims to assess innovations on PS-DAFC technology, as well as discuss the challenges and R&D needs covered on practical examples reported in the scientific literature, since 2018. Hence, this compilation intends to be a guidance tool to researchers, in order to help PS-DAFCs overcome the barriers to a broad market introduction and consequently become prime renewable energy converters and autonomous micropower generators. Only by translating research discoveries into the scale-up and commercialization process of the technology can the best balance between the economic and technical issues such as efficiency, reliability, and durability be achieved. In turn, this will certainly play a crucial role in determining how PS-DAFCs can meet pressing sustainable energy needs.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria H. de Sá & Alexandra M. F. R. Pinto & Vânia B. Oliveira, 2022. "Passive Small Direct Alcohol Fuel Cells for Low-Power Portable Applications: Assessment Based on Innovative Increments since 2018," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-48, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:15:y:2022:i:10:p:3787-:d:820652
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Enas Taha Sayed & Abdul Ghani Olabi & Abdul Hai Alami & Ali Radwan & Ayman Mdallal & Ahmed Rezk & Mohammad Ali Abdelkareem, 2023. "Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Systems," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(3), pages 1-26, February.

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