Indirect Formic Acid Fuel Cell with Room Temperature Catalytic Dehydrogenation

A room temperature indirect formic acid fuel cell is enabled by a platinum-ruthenium-bismuth mixed metal/metal oxide supported catalyst developed recently at University of Hong Kong. Dehydrogenation of formic acid occurs at room temperature and atmospheric pressure with sufficient hydrogen generation to power a fuel cell. The reaction proceeded in aqueous phase is highly selective to hydrogen and carbon dioxide without detection of carbon monoxide which is typically reported at low temperature. The concept of room temperature indirect formic acid fuel cell powering a portable device can be demonstrated with about 80 mL solution of 15% aqueous formic acid in 200 mg catalyst to power a low wattage motor fan at room temperature.