toshiba worldwide   toshiba america
     
 
Search:  
 
Products
Energy (Fuel Cell)
Applications
 Quick Links
  Link 1 RoHS/Lead(Pb)-Free
  Link 1   Stock Check
  Link 1   Sales Contacts
  Link 1   Complete Product List
 
 
Need Product Support?
Contact Us
 
Banner that links to Survey
Energy (Fuel Cell)
Related Information
Press Releases  |  DMFC FAQ  | 
Direct Methanol Fuel Cells - a Renewable and Sustainable Energy Source that Goes Where You Go.

A fuel cell is a small power generator that converts the chemical energy of fuel, such as methanol, into electrical energy. Fuel cells can continuously produce energy as long as there is a supply of fuel, and unlike batteries, do not need constant recharging. Further, as batteries are beginning to reach their upper limits in capability, fuel cells provide an optimum solution for support of power-intensive applications such as cell phones, MP3 players, digital cameras and other portable applications.

Direct methanol fuel cell's (DMFCs) efficient energy conversion delivers a fast charge and long-lasting power to mobile digital products. Grid free and always on, this new technology promises to unleash mobile products from cumbersome AC adapters and restrictive power outlets enabling true wireless performance.
DMFC Charger

Toshiba Delivers First Commercial DMFC in Japan as an External Power Source

Toshiba is a leader in the energy business, and its ground-breaking efforts in DMFC technology have now culminated in the delivery of Toshiba's first commercial power source based on this technology.

In October 2009, Toshiba Corporation, Display Devices and Components, announced the commercial launch of the Toshiba Dynario™ external power source that incorporates a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC) for powering mobile digital consumer products. The Dynario external power source and fuel cartridges are now available in Japan on a limited basis. Toshiba plans on releasing DMFC products for a range of mobile applications including embedded OEM designs in cooperation with its partners in North America in 2010. Stay tuned for updates!

What is methanol and where does it come from? What is biomethanol?
It is a renewable and sustainable energy source that is derived from natural gas, or from previously living organisms, such as plants, animals and their by-products. Its chemical formula is CH30H, and it is a type of alcohol. Today, methanol is generally produced from natural gas, but it can be produced from biomass, and this is expected to be a greater source in the future. Biomethanol is produced from pyrolysis of organic materials such as dead leaves or organic waste materials, enabling them to be put to effective use as energy for portable devices.
What are the differences between DMFC and lithium ion batteries?
MemoryDMFC technology operates like a small generator. Methanol can be added in a few seconds and refilled even while the device is in operation. Compared to lithium ion batteries, which takes a lot of time to charge, the Dynario external power source can start generation soon after fuel is added so the device can be used continuously without access to an electric socket.
Is Direct Methanol Fuel Safe?
When used normally and when taking the necessary safety measures, risks associated with DMFCs are very limited. Toshiba products will meet international standards of IEC, which requires that DMFC and devices never leak while in use or during storage or transportation.
DMFC
Who would use a DMFC power source?
There are many types of people who would benefit from "grid-free" power. Here are a few:
  • If you are constantly on the road and don't have easy access to a power outlet.
  • If you travel internationally --who wants to mess with converters anyway?
  • If you are tasked with emergency response and don't have the time or access to charge your communication devices.
  • If you spend lots of time in the outdoors as a biker, hiker or camper.
  • If you work outdoors for prolonged periods of time.
  • If you are tired of buying and recycling batteries used by other portable power sources.
  • If you just forget to charge.
Click here for Toshiba Milestones in DMFC Technology
Click here for Photo Gallery (see Energy: Fuel Cells)
 
To learn more about Toshiba's promotional efforts for DMFC in Japan, please go to Toshiba Corporation, Display Device and Components
 
Follow Toshiba DMFC on Twitter  Follow Toshiba DMFC on Twitter   Share this site on Twitter  Share This Site On Twitter
Top