Neah Power Systems unveils Multi Fuel / Oxidant capability of the Neah Cell

Tuesday, Nov 17, 2009

Neah Power Systems, Inc , the Company developing fuel cell-based renewable energy solutions, described Neah's unique ability to utilize multiple fuel solutions to power its patented methanol-powered fuel cells. Neah Power's porous silicon design allows for the use of a variety of oxidants and fuels, including oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric acid, while the anode loop has been run with several concentrations of methanol and formic acid for its fuel.

Danny Wilks, Research Scientist, Neah Power Systems, explained that Neah's architecture allows the use of different catalyst surfaces. "All electrochemical cells have two fundamental parts: an anode and a cathode," Wilks said. "These electrodes act in much the same way as terminals in a battery. The anode catalyzes a fuel source such as methanol to harvest electrons that are then 'donated' to the reaction. The electrons are then transferred to the cathode where an oxidant is catalyzed to accept the donated electrons. The flow of electrons in this reaction is how electricity is generated in an electrochemical cell. On the anode loop, methanol is one of the most energy dense fuels
on the market today. Newer and greener methanol manufacturing methods are being developed that help to make methanol one of the more environmentally friendly fuels."

Chris D'Couto, Neah CEO and President, pointed out, "The power needs of tomorrow call for adaptable and dynamic power solutions that can be tailored to customer needs. Neah continues to research the next generation of fuels and oxidants that will be used to place our patented porous silicon fuel cell technology for these growing markets."

About Neah Power

Neah Power Systems, Inc. is developing long-lasting, efficient and safe power solutions for the military and for portable electronic devices. Neah uses a unique, patented, silicon-based design for its micro fuel cells that enable higher power densities, lower cost and compact form-factors. The company's micro fuel cell system can run in aerobic and anaerobic modes, and is developing energy storage solutions based on its proprietary porous silicon technology.