Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell

Direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC) is a type of alkaline fuel cell which converts chemical energy stored in chemical hydride to produce electricity.

Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) is a type of chemical hydride where hydrogen is stored. Sodium borohydride exists mostly as a white crystalline solid which can be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances like water and acids.

When sodium borohydride and air/oxygen are fed into the DBFC, electricity is produced together with water and sodium metaborate as two by-products. Some heat is also released. No carbon dioxide is produced.

Sodium borohydride has been widely regarded as a promising hydrogen carrier owing to its high hydrogen storing capability (10.8 wt%) and energy density. No major infrastructures, e.g. high-pressure storage tank, insulated tanks, and etc, are needed for storage and transport of sodium borohydride.

DBFC avoids the potential hazards of operating with hydrogen gas, and is safer and easier to handle than conventional hydrogen fuel cell. The theoretical power/energy density of DBFC is much higher than that of conventional hydrogen fuel cell. In terms of cost, DBFC is cheaper as compared to traditional fuel cell since expensive platinum catalysts are not needed.

Applications of DBFC include:

  • Emergency and backup power for commercial, industrial and residential buildings, especially data centres and medical facilities.
  • Electrification in remote or inaccessible areas.
  • Power long distance mobility.

We are working with National University of Singapore (NUS) to research, develop and deploy Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell as an efficient, clean, reliable and sustainable power generation system.

Are you an investor?

As an investor, if you are interested to fund this venture, please contact us at enquiry@offgridenergysg.com.