Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFC)

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option b

Explanation
Statement 1 is not correct: Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) are the most common form of methanol fuel cell. Similar to any other type of fuel cell, methanol fuel cells consist of two electrodes (anode and cathode), which are separated from each other through an electrolyte. The electrodes are conductive for electrons, while the electrolyte is only permeable for positively charged hydrogen atoms. Typically, methanol fuel cell systems build on a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM). In terms of design, a distinction can be made between two modes of operation: Fuel cells that use methanol directly and those that use methanol indirectly. Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs) have been considered an attractive alternate power source for small vehicles such as forklifts and as battery chargers for mobile phones, digital cameras, laptops, and other small electronic gadgets, due to their high energy density, high efficiency, and low operating temperature. However, the indirect methanol fuel cell (also reformed methanol fuel cell or RMFC) uses hydrogen as fuel. The hydrogen is extracted from methanol in a pre-process. This system design allows for a higher power output and improved electrical efficiency compared to DMFCs.

Statement 2 is correct: Compared to other methanol fuel cells, they are characterized by a simple system design and fast start-up times. They are usually low-power systems with an output of < 200 Watts.

Statement 3 is correct: DMFCs are used both in commercial and private settings. The fields of application include remote monitoring stations, video surveillance systems or smaller electrical systems in traffic control – mostly with a demanded power of less than 150 Watts. In the leisure sector, DMFCs are used for on-board power supply in caravans and boats.