Simplified model for the direct methanol fuel cell anode

A kinetic model for the anode of the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is presented. The model is based on the generally accepted dual site mechanism of methanol oxidation, in aqueous solution, on well characterized Pt–Ru catalyst and it can predict the performance of the electrode as a function of cell temperature, anode potential and methanol concentration. In addition the model also generates data regarding the surface coverage of significant adsorbates involved in methanol oxidation on the dual site catalyst.