PolyFuel has announced that it has developed the first functional version of its prototype methanol fuel cell for laptop computers.

It has been integrated into the Lenovo T40 ThinkPad and represents a key step towards an efficient fuel cell for laptops.

The technology will be demonstrated to potential customers in the coming weeks and it follows the interest from high profile electronic companies.

A fuel cartridge can be swapped while the computer is in use, meaning the user can swap for a new power cartridge without losing power.

Jim Balcom, Chief Executive Officer of PolyFuel, said that creating a functioning prototype is a "critical step" in developing fuel cells.

He said it "brings closer the achievement of our ultimate objective - the widespread commercialisation of portable fuel cell technology".

The firm is expected to share its stack and systems reference design technologies under a simple licensing agreement with its customers.



Source:
PolyFuel Discloses Prototype Notebook Computer Fuel Cell Power Supply, 16/07/08
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