Mitsubishi Electric Corporation has announced the successful development of a PEM (Proton Exchange Mebrane) fuel cell cogeneration system using a Lossnay humidifier. Such systems could be used to providing heating in homes and commercial properties.

The fuel cell system offers an electrical efficiency of 34 per cent, while overall energy efficiency stands at 83 per cent with heat recovery, marking a strong level of performance.

The Lossnay humidifier is key to the PEMFC co-generation system, enabling it to be simplified and to achieve high-performance criteria.

Mitsubishi explained that the system was reliability tested to DSS (Daily Start & Stop) standards, with cold-weather operations needed for home and business use over the long term in mind.

In addition the firm said it had achieved significant cost savings, by focusing on commercial production of low-cost PEFC Molded separators, as well as boosting the device's shelf life through a reduction in thermal fatigue.

PEM fuel cells produce electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen over a platinum catalyst.