A comprehensive review of direct borohydride fuel cells

A direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC) is a device that converts chemical energy stored in borohydride ion (BH4-) and an oxidant directly into electricity by redox processes. Usually, a DBFC employs an alkaline solution of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as fuel and oxygen or hydrogen peroxide as oxidant. DBFC has some attractive features such as high open circuit potential, ease of electro-oxidation of BH4- on non-precious metals such as nickel, low operational temperature and high power density. The DBFC is a promising power system for portable applications. This article discusses prominent features of DBFC, reviews recent developments in DBFC research, and points out future directions in DBFC research. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.