Can Ethanol Fuel Cells Power Vehicles?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the potential of ethanol fuel cells for powering vehicles, specifically highlighting the development of direct ethanol fuel cells. While these cells are currently in research and development stages and do not perform as efficiently as direct methanol fuel cells, they offer advantages such as reduced catalyst requirements. The Chevy Volt, equipped with GM's E-Flex Propulsion System, exemplifies a vehicle that can utilize E85, a fuel blend containing up to 85% ethanol, showcasing the practical application of ethanol in automotive technology.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of direct ethanol fuel cells and their operation
  • Familiarity with E85 fuel composition and its applications
  • Knowledge of fuel cell technology and types
  • Awareness of electric vehicle powertrains, specifically the E-Flex Propulsion System
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the efficiency and performance metrics of direct ethanol fuel cells
  • Explore the chemical processes involved in converting ethanol to hydrogen for fuel cells
  • Investigate the latest advancements in the Chevy Volt's E-Flex Propulsion System
  • Learn about the environmental impact and benefits of using E85 as a fuel source
USEFUL FOR

Automotive engineers, renewable energy researchers, and anyone interested in the development of alternative fuel technologies for vehicles.

kach22i
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A remark in another forum has cause more quesions to pop up, please try to answer or just lay back and enjoy the ride.

http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/showthread.php?t=9432&page=3
marshmat said:
There are "direct-methanol" fuel cells, currently being developed for laptops and cellphones, which work directly off the simpler methanol (methyl alcohol). No larger versions that I know of can do so.

The "E" in E-85" is ethanol which is a type of alcohol, right?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E85
E85 is an alcohol fuel mixture that typically contains a mixture of up to 85% denatured fuel ethanol and gasoline or other hydrocarbon by volume.


1. Are there any Fuel Cells which use ethanol?

2. Whats the largest version of an "alcohol based" fuel cell out there?
 
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There are direct ethanol fuel cells, they don't work as well as methanol but ethanol is nicer stuff to work with. They are R+D scale but could be good since the membrane ones don't need fancy catalysts.
Direct fuel cells work directly on the compound, most current fuel cells split the ethanol to get the hydrogen which is then used as a fuel.
Wiki as quite a good list of fuel cell types.
 
FYI, on the PBS TV program "Autoline Detroit" this weekend Bob Lutz of GM talked about the Chevy Volt. It's powertrain is pretty what I have been asking about and looking for. Its a classic disruptive technology although Lutz is quick to point out there are no conceptual hurdles to overcome (without whispering the word "Hydrogen"), it's pretty much using technology that's already out there - just making it better.

Watch the interview here (The Shock of the New):
http://www.autolinedetroit.tv/show/1133

Link to the "Volt":
http://www.chevrolet.com/electriccar/
Introducing a new kind of electric vehicle — Concept Chevy Volt. It’s unlike any previous EV (electric vehicle), thanks to its innovative rechargeable electric drive system and range-extending power source. It can be configured to run on electricity, gasoline, E85 or biodiesel. So you have at least a couple of options for the most efficient drive — all made possible by GM’s innovative E-Flex Propulsion System.
 
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