XNRGI Inc fka NPWZ

[Crosscut]

41.6 days, but they said EXCEEDED 1000 hours.
So yes, 1-1/3 months of non-stop power generation.
So at this point, we are into uncharted territory with this fuel cell.
What they do not report is that there undoubtedly have been multiple refuelings. What I'd like to know (and prospective customers as well), beside the durability of it, is how long a run-time it has with the contemplated typical fuel cartridge. Does anybody know what the typical PEM fuel cell has done/will do on a non-stop run?

According to a 2001 article (extracted below), PEM fuel cells (at that time) had a theoretical estimated service life of 4000 hours under normal start-and-stop use, whereas they could possibly run for 40,000 hours if run continuously. Other articles I've seen do point out degradation of the membrane, contamination and other problems mat reduce the life and the efficiency substatially with time.

"The PEM fuel cell requires heavy accessories. Operating compressors, pumps and other apparatus consumes 30 percent of the energy generated. The PEM stack has an estimated service life of 4000 hours if operated in a vehicle. The relatively short life span is caused by intermittent operation. Start and stop conditions induce drying and wetting, which contributes to membrane stress. If run continuously, the stationary stack is good for about 40,000 hours. The replacement of the stack is a major expense."

Full Article LINK:
http://www.buchmann.ca/Article1-Page1.asp

If NEAH can demonstrate long-life with little or no degradation of the power, this will be another plus for the silicon-based DFMC model they use. BUT we have a way to go to get to that point...here's hoping they do just that.

GO NEAH , and good luck to all of us LONGS!!!