Scitem – a Japanese startup headquartered in Ishikawa Prefecture known for producing hydrogen products such as canisters, gas generators, and refilling systems, which are sold to companies engaged in research in the hydrogen field – has marketed a portable emergency power generation system fueled by replaceable hydrogen cartridges.
Close in size to a briefcase, the hydrogen from these cartridges within the generators reacts with oxygen in the air to produce electricity via an internal hydrogen fuel cell. This electricity can then recharge smartphones and other devices through plugs or USB cables.
The cartridges do not discharge electricity as do conventional batteries, thereby making them resistant to degradation. Scitem has come up with a prototype with a 30-watt output that is compatible with notebook computers.
Scitem has also developed a hydrogen cartridge prototype with Gita, a startup that designs machinery and builds labor-saving devices. Similar to the generator, the hydrogen fuel cell is installed internally with a replaceable hydrogen cartridge. As there is no engine, vibration is reduced and no carbon dioxide is emitted. This tech may be applied to automated guided systems and kick scooters.
“The hydrogen cartridges can be replaced like dry-cell batteries so continuous operation is possible. There’s no need to build hydrogen stations,” said Scitem founder and president Kan Tanaka.
The startup is expecting to sell these systems at around￥500,000 ($4,400) upon mass production.
Hydrogen energy is regarded as one key aspect of decarbonisation. However, the need for new storage and transportation infrastructure blocks its widespread adoption. With these portable canisters, Scitem hopes to solve this problem.
