By Kim Yoo-chul
Staff Reporter
Samsung SDI said Wednesday that it has developed highly efficient portable direct-methanol fuel cells for military use.
The battery has enhanced durability for a maximum of eight times existing models, while generating 54 percent more power, according to spokesman Seo Hae-su.
The battery can provide 1,800 watts of electricity before needing to be recharged. This is equivalent to electricity that a soldier uses for three days in the field, Seo said.
"We will commercialize the direct-methanol fuel cell for military use from 2010. We expect talks to start for the provision of the cells to portable devices in U.S. military barracks in South Korea," according to the official.
It is also quieter and more environment-friendly than power generators that run on gasoline and diesel fuel.
Samsung SDI had already conducted performance tests at the U.S. Army Communication Electronics Research and Development Engineering Center. It will now undergo field tests before shipping from 2010, the company said.
"We will make it more versatile so it can be used for laptop and portable devices," Seo said.