Described is a fuel cell that uses the byproduct of biodiesel production directly as a fuel. Using an alkaline anion-exchange membrane (AAEM) allows oxidation of caustic, crude glycerin in a direct-fuel cell at ambient temperature, and eliminates the need for costly neutralization, distillation, and purification of glycerol. Up to five times greater energy densities are observed compared to direct methanol fuel cells due to significantly higher concentrations of glycerol that can be used. Also, enhanced fuel cell performance is observed because of reduced fuel-crossover and reduced cathode flooding that are prevalent in direct-methanol fuel cells. Oxidation pathways to tartronic acid and mesooxalic correspond to 8 and 10 e-, respectively, with no C-C bond cleavage. Since the C-C bonds remain intact, no CO2 is generated using this fuel cell technology, which enables power generation without increasing the carbon footprint.

Renewable fuel byproduct used directly in a fuel cell demonstrates higher energy densities and eliminates CO2 generation and carbon footprint

ACS Spring 2022

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