The long-lasting, environmentally friendly fuel cell is one of the most hotly pursued technologies of the decade, one in which the world's largest companies—from auto giants to computer makers—are investing heavily. If successful, fuel cells could not only hasten a shift in our energy infrastructure but also power mobile computers all day on a single charge.
The first wave of fuel cell adoption is likely to happen with miniature, methanol-based fuel cells for laptops, tablet computers, handhelds, and cell phones. Such fuel cells promise longer life and ultimately lower expenses, because methanol costs next to nothing.
Toshiba recently demonstrated a prototype of a direct methanol fuel cell that can power a notebook PC for 5 hours. Fed by a small cartridge of methanol, this type of cell works by converting chemical energy directly into electricity. The by-products are oxygen and water, which are recycled back into the cell. About the size of a notebook port replicator, the cell is neither as portable nor as long-lasting as consumers need, but it is a significant step. Toshiba plans to start selling it next year.
The most viable transition technology to the fuel cell car is the hybrid car, which combines an internal-combustion engine with heavy-duty nickel hydride batteries that recharge via the kinetic energy generated when a car brakes. Toyota is already selling a hybrid model, the Prius, and others are expected soon.
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