Optimizing Reactions in Fuel Cells and Electrochemical Reactions

Abstract

This invention relates to novel methods for affecting, controlling and/or directing various reactions and/or reaction pathways or systems by exposing one or more components in a fuel cell reaction system to at least one spectral energy pattern. In a first aspect of the invention, at least one spectral energy pattern can be applied to a fuel cell reaction system. In a second aspect of the invention, at least one spectral energy conditioning pattern can be applied to a conditioning reaction system. The spectral energy conditioning pattern can, for example, be applied at a separate location from the reaction vessel (e.g., in a conditioning reaction vessel) or can be applied in (or to) the reaction vessel, but prior to other reaction system participants being introduced into the reaction vessel.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method to affect a fuel cell reaction system with a spectral energy catalyst comprising the steps of:
 targeting at least one participant in said fuel cell reaction system with at least one spectral energy catalyst to cause at least one of the formation, stimulation and stabilization of at least one transient or at least one intermediate to result in desired reaction product.   
     
     
         2 . A fuel cell reaction system, said fuel cell reaction system comprising an anode side and a cathode side and an ion flow direction between said anode side and said cathode side;
 means for applying at least one applied spectral energy conditioning pattern on said cathode side of said fuel cell reaction system, said at least one applied spectral energy conditioning pattern being located such that it applies its pattern perpendicular to the ion flow direction between said anode side and said cathode side.   
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein said fuel cell reaction system comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of an alkaline fuel cell, a direct methanol fuel cell, a membrane/electrode assembly, a molten carbonate fuel cell, a phosphoric acid fuel cell, a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell, a protonic-ceramic fuel cell, a regenerative fuel cell and a solid oxide fuel cell. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein said fuel cell reaction system comprises a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein said means for applying comprises a microwave frequency generator.