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Murata to Mass Produce Methanol Sensors for Fuel Cells

October 25, 2005 by Jeff Shepard

Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (Japan) reported that it will begin mass-producing small methanol sensors for fuel cells as early as November 2005. The sensors use ultrasound to measure the concentration of methanol, providing a way of tracking the remaining amount of methanol available to the fuel cell for power generation.

The sensor measures 12 mm x 25 mm x 8.5 mm and is designed to be installed on direct-methanol fuel cells, which a number of companies are developing as the replacement to lithium-ion batteries for notebook computers, cell phones, and other small consumer digital appliances. Murata began development work on the sensor at the start of the year and completed the device in September. The company will begin shipping samples this month, and begin mass-production as soon as clients place orders.