MTI Micro Presents Mobion DMFC Technology

MTI MicroFuel Cells Inc. (Albany, NY), a subsidiary of Mechanical Technology Inc., announced its new Mobion™ technology, which is based on patented direct-methanol fuel cell (DMFC) technology, that will enable it to power portable devices 2 to 10 times longer than an equivalent-size battery pack, while allowing for instant, cord-free, recharging.

MTI debuted Mobion technology integrated into two concept models, a hand-held entertainment system and a PDA/smart phone. The integrated Mobion power pack is less than 40 cc in size, achieving a technology milestone for the company while demonstrating miniaturization progress necessary for integration into portable electronic devices.

At the core of Mobion technology is its approach to managing the water produced at the fuel cell cathode, and required for the chemical reaction at the fuel cell anode. Traditional DMFCs rely on complex water management "micro-plumbing" around the cell, whereby water that is produced at the cathode is collected, re-routed and mixed with incoming methanol at the anode. The Mobion technology architecture uses a proprietary approach that manages the water flow internal to the fuel cell with no pumping required.