Aug 3 2009
DuPont and SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG today announced that they have received a follow-up order from the U.S. Army for the development of the M-25 fuel cell -- a small, lightweight, portable power supply that can extend soldier mission times to 72 hours or more. The project cost is approximately $3 million.
The M-25 is part of an integrated body-worn power source that can be carried by the soldier that combines DuPont's direct methanol technology with SFC's commercially proven fuel cell systems, products and integration expertise. Enabling a significant weight reduction when compared to conventional battery systems for multi-day missions, the M-25's standard design, when worn by soldiers in the field for extended missions, is up to 80 percent lighter than conventional power sources, yet capable of powering a wide range of soldier equipment. In addition to its light weight for powering digital communication and navigation equipment, the M-25 delivers quiet and continuous energy, and offers independent standalone functions such as remote area battery charging and power.
The agreement is the latest step in the M-25 program, which was awarded $1 million by the U.S. Department of Defense Wearable Power Prize in October 2008.
"This technology is a decisive advantage and DuPont is proud to partner again with SFC to address the need for lightweight, long endurance power system for soldiers," said John D. Colven, global business manager - DuPont Fuel Cells. "The integration of our membrane electrode assembly technology within SFC direct methanol fuel cell systems will further the success of fuel cell power solutions in defense applications."
"The new U.S. Army order reconfirms the success of our cooperation, and DuPont and SFC's expertise in integrating the latest technologies into solutions with superior user benefits for our customers," said Peter Podesser, CEO - SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG. "Based on this, there is a significant potential for portable and vehicle-based autonomous power applications that require full systems solutions combining fuel cells and batteries as a system. Fuel-efficient, lightweight, silent and emission-free power sources are a unique way to achieve customer requirements and ultimate customer satisfaction."
DuPont produces proven, science-based life-protection solutions, including some of the world's most trusted brands. Among these are DuPont Kevlar and Nomex advanced fibers and Tyvek nonwovens used in protective apparel and equipment worn by military, law enforcement, firefighting and other emergency and defense personnel.
SFC Smart Fuel Cell is market leader in fuel cell technologies for mobile and off-grid power applications serving the leisure, industrial and defense markets. As one of Germany's technology pioneers, SFC has won numerous innovation awards. SFC has alliances with leading companies in a wide range of industries. Unlike most other fuel cell manufacturers, who are in the research and development phase or run subsidized demonstration projects, SFC has shipped over 14,000 fully commercial products to industrial and private end users for five years, and has created a convenient fuel cartridge supply infrastructure. SFC is DIN ISO 9001:2000 certified. SFC is based in Brunnthal, Germany, and has a U.S. sales and technical service office in Atlanta.
DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.