Performance loss of a Pt-based implantable glucose fuel cell in simulated tissue and cerebrospinal fluids

05.08.2014

Köhler C, Frei M, Zengerle R, Kerzenmacher S.

ChemElectroChem 2014; 1(11):1895-1900

ChemElectroChem        online article

We present an electrode-resolved analysis of the performance of platinum-based abiotically catalyzed glucose fuel cells in realistically simulated tissue fluid (STF) and cerebrospinal fluid (SCF). The presence of amino acids and small organic molecules at physiological concentration leads to a drastic breakdown in fuel cell voltage. The performance loss mainly originates from catalyst poisoning at the anode, which causes fuel cell voltage loss. The results underline the necessity to further investigate and improve catalyst poisoning at the anode under realistic body conditions.