SFC Smart Fuel Cell Environmental Power Supply

Jun 23, 2008 9:58 AM

SFC Smart Fuel Cell, a Germany-based provider of mobile power supplies based on fuel cell technology, supplies Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFC), which conduct energy conversion through a one-step transformation of methanol into electrical energy. During the energy conversion process, the EFOY fuel cell heats up to about 104 degrees F, releasing water as vapor and carbon dioxide. “The amount of water vapor and carbon dioxide released is comparable to that found in the breath of a child,” says Dr. Peter Podesser, SFC Smart Fuel Cell CEO.

In addition to being used for mobile power in defense, personal mobility and recreational vehicles and consumer electronic devices, the fuel cells are useful in remote video surveillance applications for round-the-clock, unmanned, off-grid power in any location. Carrying a high energy density, a 10-liter DMFC cartridge weighing in at 18.5 lbs. contains the same energy as 595 lbs. of batteries. This will operate a camera for up to eight weeks without user intervention. The fuel cell can be remotely operated and monitored from a PC or mobile phone through an RS 232 interface adapter. Podessor says the cells can be combined with solar energy systems for hybrid power, where, for example, solar energy powers a camera system in daylight and the DFMC cartridge takes over at night.

Although it has been proven that methanol as a substance is toxic and flammable, methanol that is properly packaged in cartridges meeting or exceeding applicable safety standards is safe to handle and transport, the company contends. Every SFC fuel cartridge carries a TUV safety seal and is equipped with a safety valve to prevent leakage. The valve will only open if the fuel cartridge is connected to an SFC fuel cell. If the fuel cartridge is removed, the safety valve will seal airtight, ensuring that the user never comes into contact with methanol. Additionally, the fuel containers are made of impact-resistant plastic and are subjected to numerous drop and shock tests prior to distribution. Visit smartfuelcell.de.

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