Fuel substance and associated cartridge for fuel cell
US7255947B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 17, 2003 |
| Grant date | Aug 14, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 2, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86276
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides a gel fuel, which includes a fuel substance held in a polymeric structure. One embodiment of the composition includes neat methanol, to which a thickening substance, such as that sold commercially under the trade name Carbopol®, is added to impart viscosity, as well as stabilizing and suspending properties. In addition to the thickening substance, a further substance can be added to balance the pH of the gel fuel when needed. In accordance with the invention, a fuel cell cartridge is provided that has at least one aspect that is methanol-permeable, and which may include a fuel vapor permeable layer and it may be comprised of one of a number of various alternative materials. Features within the fuel cartridge can be used to increase surface area of the gel fuel, and to maintain the gel fuel in a desired location within the cartridge.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.