The sensor uses 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 is a diminutive 12 x 25 x 8.5mm 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.