Direct methanol fuel cells for automotive applications: a review. Issue 1 (31st December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Amba Prasad Rao, G.; Reddy, K. Jayasimha; Reddy, R. Meenakshi; Madhu Murthy, K.; Naga Srinivasulu, G.
• Is Part Of: International journal of ambient energy. Volume 43:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 7349
• Page End: 7370
• Publication Date: 2022-12-31
• Subjects: Fuel cell -- direct methanol fuel cell -- methanol crossover -- flow field plate -- new catalysts -- new membranes; Power resources -- Periodicals; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; 621.04205
• DOI: 10.1080/01430750.2022.2063380
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-0750

Abstract

Abstract : There is an immediate need to find a viable alternative for fossil fuels by switching over to low non-carbon fuels. Hydrogen being a high-energy carrier has been quite successful in fuel cell mode of operation. Difficulties, such as its cost-intensive production and storage, onboard storage and safety of operation, attracted the researchers to explore methanol in fuel cell applications. Methanol being a liquid fuel allows ease of production and handling in existing infrastructure. However, it was explored in small and portable electronic devices. The use of methanol in fuel cell applications led to the problem of methanol crossover, carbon dioxide bubble formation and poisoning of electrodes. The present paper reviews the efforts made by the research community in the development of improving the existing and developing new membranes, new flow field plate designs and new anode catalysts while addressing the challenges with regards to the use and possible solutions.