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What is a fuel cell?
Fuel cells convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy, which makes fuel cells particularly efficient. The essential technical difference between fuel cells and batteries is that fuel cells separate energy transformation and energy storage. The fuel cell will continue to generate electrical current as long as a gas of liquid medium is added. SFC has patented a method of converting energy using fuel cells that allows for miniaturization by focusing on simplified fuel intake, sealing and electrical configuration. We have also used low-cost materials and mass production techniques to lower the cost of manufacturing fuel cells. "Active Crossover Control" by SFC permits active monitoring and minimization of the negative methanol crossover effect, thus upping the fuel cell’s performance. The result is an extremely short startup time and highly efficient fuel cells by SFC.

We have developed our own technology, which in turn, has provided the basis for several patents. As a result, SFC enjoys a unique technological and marketing edge in fuel-cell systems.

How do DMFC fuel cells work?
Low-temperature fuel cells are suitable for mobile applications because they generate electricity at low temperatures. The two main types are hydrogen fuel cells and direct methanol fuel cells. SFC has made a conscious decision to go with DMFC technology because methanol is safer and more affordable.

Here is how a DMFC fuel cell works:

A mixture of methanol and water is introduced to the anode side by a patented internal water-management system. This enables us to employ 100% pure methanol in our fuel cartridges. Ambient air is pumped into the fuel cell on the cathode side. An electrical circuit connects the anode and the cathode sides. Upon contact with the platinum catalyst, methanol releases its electrons which flow in the direction of the cathode. At the same time, protons are released and these penetrate the membrane to the cathode. There, oxygen reacts with the proton and electrons to form pure water.

During the chemical process, the fuel cell heats up to about 40° C, releasing water as vapor and carbon dioxide. The amount of water vapor and carbon dioxide released is comparable to that found in the breath of a child.