Mixed-reactant, strip-cell direct methanol fuel cells

A feasibility analysis of a mixed-reactant, strip-cell direct methanol fuel cell concept is presented. In this type of cell, selective electrodes are mounted in an alternating fashion on the same side of a membrane electrolyte, and are exposed to a mixed-reactant feed. The presence of a single feed stream reduces flow system volume and sealing requirements, and potentially increases power density. Experimental polarization measurements of selective anodes and cathodes demonstrate the insensitivity of such electrodes to the presence of a mixed-reactant feed. The fuel efficiency of the direct methanol cell with selective electrodes is shown to be higher than that of a cell with more typical electrodes at low current density. The effect of geometric parameters on the performance of strip cells is discussed, and design recommendations are given for a simple geometry.