After having presented rechargeable methanol accumulators several months ago, Toshiba is today demonstrating its lead in this highly competitive sector by marketing the first batteries of this type. The Dynario is the first fuel cell type charger based on DMFC (Direct Methanol Fuel Cell) technology. With a 5V and 400 mA output, it supplies and recharges via the USB port small electronic devices such as mobile phones or cameras.
DMFC technology produces electricity from a reaction between methanol, water and air. Charging the Lithium-ion accumulator of this battery lasts only about twenty seconds. As the only waste emitted is a small amount of water vapor and carbon dioxide and the batteries are rechargeable, they are favored by experts in terms of capacity and low environmental nuisance.
Less than 5 euros per recharge
From October 29, 2009, Toshiba plans to sell on its Japanese webstore methanol batteries at a price of 29 yen (about 800 euros). Initially, sales will be limited to 220 units. The charger will be powered by 3000 ml methanol bottles, costing 50 yen (3150 euros) and distributed in packs of 4,6 (a copy will be delivered to Dynario buyers). Toshiba estimates that this pod allows up to two phone recharges. The tariff should gradually drop as volumes increase.
The Dynario loader represents the culmination of an R&D program, which began almost six years ago. A prototype DMFC charger was presented at Ceatec in Tokyo in 2003. Other companies are developing prototypes based on their own technology, but are slow to reach the commercialization stage for the moment.
Pout Toshiba, the next step will be to offer devices equipped with these fuel cells. He has already presented a mobile phone, benefiting from this technology at Ceatec 2009; media players and laptops had been unveiled in previous years.
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