Micro fuel cells MEMS approaches

As described above, many approaches can be taken to convert energy at small scales. This section describes some of the achievements and challenges identified in three of the most researched areas for which microfluidics are of central importance micro fuel cells, micro heat engines, and micro thrusters. The focus will be on device implementations that leverage MEMS and microfabrication technologies. 

Chan et al. (2005), have realised micro fuel cells through an approach that combines thin film materials with MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical system) technology. The membrane electrode assembly was embedded in a polymeric substrate (PMMA) which was micromachined through laser ablation to form gas flow channels. The micro gas channels were sputtered with gold to serve as current collectors. This cell utilized the water generated by the reaction for the humidification of dry reactants (H2 and O2). The peak power density achieved was 315 mW cm (901 mA cm" at 0.35 V) for the H2-O2 system with 20 ml min" O2 supply and H2 at 10 psi in dead ended mode of operation. A Y shaped microfluidic channel is depicted in Fig. 21. 

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