How the Methanol fuel cell works
SFC Fuel Cells charge batteries fully automatically thanks to an integrated charge controller that continuously monitors the battery’s state of charge. The fuel cell only starts when it is needed and switches off again once the battery is fully charged. This ensures that users always have full power reserves, while also significantly extending battery life, as continuous charging prevents deep discharge. 230 V devices can also be operated via an inverter.
SFC Fuel Cells are based on DMFC (Direct Methanol Fuel Cell) technology. They generate power from the methanol in the fuel cartridge, complemented by oxygen from the air. Methanol is directly converted into electrical power. In addition to electrical power, the only products of this reaction are waste heat and water vapour as well as a little carbon dioxide. This makes SFC Fuel Cell technology extraordinarily environmentally friendly.
The choice of methanol as a fuel offers significant advantages for mobile and portable applications because the liquid alcohol can be transported safely and effortlessly in the practical SFC fuel cartridges.
According to the CLP Regulation, methanol is categorised as a poisonous and easily flammable substance. For further information, please see the Safety data sheets in our downloads.
SFC Fuel Cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy without intermediate stages and without significant loss of efficiency. This is why they are such efficient power generators. The innovative and patented designs of SFC Fuel Cells enable a miniaturised setup, high performance, a long service life, and low weight. Using in-house developed technology, SFC has acquired a unique technological and competitive edge in the field of fuel cell systems for off-grid equipment.
Of course, SFC Fuel Cells also work together with other power generators. When used in combination with solar modules, they only switch on when the solar panels cannot supply enough power due to poor weather conditions or during the night.
The stack is the power-generating core of SFC Fuel Cells. It consists of individual cells, each composed of an anode, a cathode, and a membrane. The membrane, consisting of an electrolyte, separates the anode from the cathode. Positively charged particles, known as protons, can diffuse through the membrane. On the anode side, water and methanol are added; on the cathode side, oxygen is taken from the ambient air. In the reaction at the anode, H⁺ ions and free electrons are generated, as well as the reaction product carbon dioxide (CO₂). The protons can cross the membrane. The electrons, however, have to travel to the cathode side via a connected electrical circuit, during which they generate power. At the cathode, the H⁺ ions, the oxygen from the air, and the electrons are converted into water vapour. SFC Fuel Cells are therefore very environmentally friendly.
Questions and answers about
technology
A fuel cell is a galvanic cell that converts the chemical energy of a continuously supplied fuel and oxidant into electrical energy. The underlying principle is an electrochemical process often referred to as “cold combustion.” It can be considered the opposite process to electrolysis. A fuel cell does not store energy; instead, it acts as an energy converter that generates electrical power. The required energy is supplied externally via the fuel.
Safe operation is guaranteed within an ambient temperature range from -20°C to +50°C. For applications in more extreme conditions, please contact us.
In addition to water and CO₂, trace amounts of methanol or methanol by-products may be present in the exhaust gas. However, these are well below legally permitted limits. Important: The exhaust gas must always be directed outside. Inhalation or consumption of condensate water is harmful to health. The exhaust gas does not contain carbon monoxide (CO) or nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Yes, many users operate SFC Fuel Cells in combination with solar systems. The fuel cell automatically switches on when solar power is insufficient to meet demand.
The electrochemical process generates only a small amount of waste heat of about 40 °C.
SFC Fuel Cells comply with the strictest safety and quality requirements including those regulations that are relevant for installation in vehicles. They are the first fuel cells in the world to bear the ECE-R10 (Installation and Operation in Motor Vehicles), CE and “Safety-tested, production-monitored fuel cell system” certifications by TÜV Süd. They are also tested according to MIL-STD (military standards).
No. As long as a fuel cartridge is connected, the integrated deep discharge protection activates automatically—even when the system is switched off—to protect the battery. An additional external deep discharge protection device should be installed between the consumers and the battery.
SFC Fuel Cells charge batteries fully automatically and are compatible with various battery types, including military batteries such as the BB-2590. For specific compatibility questions, please contact our sales team.
