fuelcells
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Hydrogen separator could power fuel cells from city gas
We've seen power hacks that allow hybrid vehicles to energize your domicile, but even that isn't enough to change how entire cities receive electricity. Now, however, the Japan Fine Ceramics Center (JFCC) has collaborated with Noritake Co. and a few other firms to develop "a high-performance hydrogen separation membrane made from ceramic materials" that can purportedly "attach directly to a gas pipeline to supply hydrogen for fuel cells using city gas as the source." Additionally, the the reaction to generate hydrogen can be carried out at a temperature of around "300-degrees lower than normal," and while current estimations are suggesting that cities won't be powered via this method until closer to 2020, there's always the option for a gigantic solar field to fill the void in the time being. [Warning: read link requires subscription]
Microsoft: fuel cell rechargers for giveaways, not for Zunes
Well, it was a sweet dream while it lasted. Crushing our brief hopes of a fuel cell recharger for upcoming Zune models, a Microsoft spokesperson has come forward to clarify that the "small amount" of branded units purchased from Medis Technologies will be used as promotional giveaways at an upcoming event, and will not be joining the social any time soon. In fact, the company has no plans to sell fuel cell products at all, which pretty much rules out that hydrogen-powered laser mouse we've been fantasizing about. Oh well, we've been waiting for these magical power sources to get commercialized for so many years now, we can surely hold out a lot longer than this.[Via PMP Today]
