Tech Talk

November 2005

Power to Spare Found in Paperback-Size Package

Edited by Robert H. Williams

A just-developed compact fuel cell that is based on a highly concentrated methanol solution delivers 25 watts of continuous power to soldiers on the move. Weighing in at about 40 ounces, the cell is composed of a fuel processor, fuel cell stack, control system, balance-of-power plant and a quick replace cartridge.

Produced by Ultracell Corporation of Livermore, Calif., the system is driven by novel micro reformer technology that, with a push of a button, provides power as needed.

A commercial version of the methanol fuel cell will be available next year. It is aimed at mobile laptop users, first responders, researchers on the move, remote electronic monitoring and industrial video makers.