ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Reformed methanol fuel cell

Alright kiddo, let me explain what a reformed methanol fuel cell is! Do you remember hearing about batteries that can power toys and gadgets by converting chemicals into electricity? Well, a reformed methanol fuel cell is a special, big version of a battery that can convert methanol into electricity to power things like homes and cars!

Here's how it works: The fuel cell has two parts – one is called the anode and the other is the cathode. Methanol is pumped into the anode and in this part of the cell, the methanol is broken down into carbon dioxide (CO2), protons (positively charged particles), and electrons. The electrons travel through a wire, creating an electrical current, while the protons travel through a membrane to the cathode.

The cathode combines oxygen from the air with the protons and electrons to make water (H2O) and heat. This heat can be used to keep things warm in cold weather or even to generate more electricity!

One big advantage of a reformed methanol fuel cell is that methanol is a commonly available and easy-to-store fuel. It also creates less pollution than gasoline or diesel fuel. And the best part is that when the methanol is used up, you just add in more methanol and the fuel cell keeps on working!

So, there you have it kiddo - a reformed methanol fuel cell is like a super awesome battery that takes methanol and turns it into electricity to power things like homes and cars! Cool, right?