Itm Power Regulatory News (ITM)

21 Mar 2005 07:00

Strictly embargoed 07.00: 21 March 2005 ITM POWER PLC LAUNCH OF ITM'S FIRST WORKING DUAL LIQUID FUELLED FUEL CELL ITM Power ("ITM" or "the Company"), which aims to provide the enablingtechnology for the hydrogen economy, today announces that it has successfullydemonstrated an alkaline solid polymer fuel cell using ITM's unique alkalinemembrane technology operating by using two liquids: a liquid fuel and a liquidoxidant. This demonstration device is an additional strong indication of thediversity and commercial potential of ITM's core materials and processes andsignificantly broadens the potential addressable markets for future licensingdeals.The device was built to demonstrate the application of ITM's technology to amicro-fuel cell, a size that could be compatible with use for instance in ahand held telecommunication or other portable electronic devices. It has thepotential to be operated at high energy density at room temperature using asafe fuel / oxidant combination: sodium boro-hydride (non-flammable, as it isused as a solution in water) and hydrogen peroxide (a similar dilution to anantiseptic which you can buy at a high street chemist). Using two liquidsenables the device to operate at high altitudes, such as in an aircraft; inpolluted environments (including the presence of carbon monoxide in atmosphericair), as well as underwater.Additionally, ITM has developed and filed a UK patent on a new early warningsystem, which indicates when the liquid fuelled fuel cell is in need ofrefueling. The system consists of a colour indicator that allows the colour ofthe fuel (or the oxidant) to change as the material is exhausted, giving anearly warning of the need to re-charge the device. Previously, the rapid dropin performance was the only means of detecting that the fuel neededre-charging.UK patent applications have been made to include: the early warning refuelingcolour indicator and a sealed refueling cassette designed specifically toenable the rapid and convenient refueling of fuel cells operating using one (ortwo) liquids.Jim Heathcote, CEO of ITM Power commented: "It is central to ITM's approachthat the technology it develops should be actually useable, and it musttherefore be robust and easy to refuel using non-hazardous materials. This newsystem offers a route to a rapid, safe and convenient refueling process withoutwhich such fuel cells will not become commercially successful. The presenttechnical demonstration clearly indicates ITM's commitment to increasing itsvalue by expanding its intellectual property, whilst concentrating firmly ontechnologies necessary to make fuel cells both cost effective and attractive tocommercial customers."Please call the following if you wish to either arrange for a demonstration ofthe technical device or for further information:Media and Analysts Institutional Investors Private Client Brokers Gemma Chandler / John West David Rae / Katherine Roe Simon Hudson Tavistock Communications Durlacher City Insights Tel: 020 7920 3150 Tel: 020 7459 3600 Tel: 020 7920 3190 ENDITM POWER PLC