Abstract
Micro fuel cells address demand for higher energy density and longer lasting
portable power devices. Micro fuel cells provide longer lasting energy sources
for digital electronics. Micro fuel cells provide a hybrid storage technology
that supports long term reliable portable electronics power. Renewable energy
is base source for charging batteries, but micro fuel cell alternative
charging is needed to provide power continuity. Batteries are a chemical
process, but current devices do not last long enough. Fuel cells are one of
several evolving technologies that promise to provide more reliable, longer
portable power.
Micro fuel cell component costs continue to be an issue. Micro fuel cells are
expected to be an expensive alternative to thin film batteries, providing
hybrid technology that is needed for power continuity, but not basic power
sources in most cases throughout the forecast period.
Economies of scale do not entirely solve the inherent high costs of high grade
metallic catalysts used in micro fuel cells. More catalyst price reductions
are needed to make micro fuel cells competitive with thin film batteries.
Micro fuel cells are useful in many particular situations.
The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) portable power market for notebook
computers, mobile phones, and other portable electronic devices is expected to
grow significantly. Leading electronics manufacturers and innovative start]up
companies are introducing products. Micro fuel cells are anticipated to work
in combination with thin film batteries, creating hybrid power systems. Hybrid
markets are expected to achieve market growth as the batteries are less
expensive than the micro fuel cells. The micro fuel cells are useful for
charging thin film batteries.
Micro fuel cell markets are at $75 million at the end of 2008. By 2015, micro
fuel cell markets reach $5.59 billion. Another related segment, portable fuel
cells used in bicycles and similar large portable devices represent a similar
market opportunity. The micro fuel cells represent power for devices that
include a range of PC, handset, PDA, and digital device segments in a variety
of industry, military, and health care segments.
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