Patent ID: 8202668
Filing Date: 2012-06-19
Classification: H01M,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A fuel cell comprising: a planar configured silicon substrate having a flow divider formed thereon as a plurality of micro-channels formed in the silicon substrate for fuel gas and an electrode formed on one side of the silicon substrate and defining a planar configured anode, said flow divider including substantially parallel fuel gas input channels formed in the substrate to separate the flow divider into sections that define first and second fuel cell structures that are fed by fuel gas entering the fuel gas input channels; a microelectromechanical (MEMS) valve formed at each fuel gas input channel and configured to regulate the flow of fuel gas into each input channel; a planar configured electrode forming a cathode; a planar configured exchange electrolyte positioned between the electrodes forming the anode and cathode that receives fuel gas and oxygen and configured to generate an electric current, wherein protons pass from the anode through the ion exchange membrane and oxygen passes from the cathode to combine to form water; and wherein the silicon substrate, electrodes and ion exchange electrolyte form a rectangular configured fuel cell structure having opposing side edges, and a thermal capillary pump positioned at each side edge and engaging the silicon substrate, the electrodes and ion exchange electrolyte and configured to carry away the water.