Fuel cell system

Abstract

Fuel cell systems including a fuel composition are disclosed. In some embodiments, a fuel composition includes an organic polymer, and a fuel such as methanol, and the composition has a hardness of at least about 2 grams peak force, as determined by penetration test using a texture analyzer.

1 . A fuel cell system, comprising:
 a fuel cell comprising an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte between the anode and the cathode; and   a fuel source in fluid communication with the anode, the fuel source comprising a rigid composition comprising an organic polymer, and a fuel, wherein the rigid composition has a hardness of at least about 2 grams peak force, as determined by penetration test using a texture analyzer;   and wherein when the fuel cell is in operation the composition delivers the fuel in vapor form to the fuel cell at a controlled rate without use of mechanical assistance or a pervaporation membrane.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the fuel comprises at least about 40% by weight methanol. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the rigid composition further comprises a water-sorbing material or a material capable of reacting with water to form hydrogen. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer comprises a cross-linked ester. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer comprises an amide. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer is an acrylic. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer is an ether. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer comprises a urethane. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer comprises an aminopolymer. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the organic polymer is an epoxy polymer. 
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the components further comprise a flame retardant. 
     
     
         12 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the composition further comprises a water-sorbing material.