The fourth generation technology offers higher power densities, quicker start up times, and higher tolerances towards methanol crossover than previous DMFC technologies utilized by DuPont & SFC. This will result in a lighter, more fuel efficient system thereby increasing system energy density for multi-day missions.

Power is quickly becoming a driving factor in soldier missions. Power is currently supplied to soldiers by either disposable or rechargeable batteries, which create a heavy logistics burden as well as occupy limited space claim on the soldier. Fuel cells offer the possibility of providing continuous power to the soldier while at the same time saving recharge time and reducing the overall logistics burden of supplying portable power to the battlefield. With future power requirements and mission time both expected to increase, fuel cells are being evaluated as a supplemental power source for soldier power applications.