A team from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has developed the technology for a new type of micro fuel cells that could well be an environmentally friendly alternative to batteries. The new cells are also two times more durable than conventional batteries.

Suitable for low cost mass production, the new cells could result in cost savings for manufacturers and their end consumers.

Batteries are typically used for modern day consumer products such as mobile phones, digital cameras, MP3 players, etc. A huge disadvantage of conventional batteries is that they have limited life spans.

The new cells developed by NTU aim to overcome this drawback. At least two times more durable than conventional batteries, they are also different from similar fuel cells in the market in that they are suitable for low cost mass production. This was achieved through NTU’s breakthrough technology, making it possible to use only plastic components instead of conventional metal components. The result could well be lighter, cheaper and longer-lasting consumer products.

The breakthrough was developed under NTU School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering’s Fuel Cell Strategic Research Programme. Led by Associate Professor Chan Siew Hwa, the programme is highly multidisciplinary in nature and focuses on practical applications of fuel cell technology.

A patent has been filed for mass production of key components of micro fuel cell and the team is confident of their invention’s potential commercial applications. Possible applications include all types of products which are currently using batteries as portable power sources.

Said Assoc Prof Chan: “We are excited to have achieved this breakthrough in such a highly competitive area, and look forward to commercialising our technology and seeing our research applied in all forms of portable devices worldwide. This would be yet another example of how research at NTU meets real world needs.”