The research team’s work, which is funded by NSW Coal Innovation, is underway at the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER). 

The direct carbon fuel cell, or DCFC, will draw energy from fossil fuels at a higher rate than typical coal-fired power generation, a trait they hope can help extend coal reserves and reduce the environmental impact associated with using coal for electricity.

The technology is also expected to offer a greener alternative in nations including China and India, where coal reserves are plentiful and the economy is unlikely to quickly shift away from the fuel source.

Chief investigator Professor Scott Donne has spent five years developing the approach, which uses a single step to convert chemical energy to electricity. It was pioneered in the early 20^th century but overlooked for the simplicity of burning coal. “A lot of energy is lost in the process of burning coal to produce heat,” Professor Donne said. “It is critical to be looking at better and more efficient ways of producing power as coal resources continue to decline and renewable energies are still being developed.”

Partner investigator Dr Jessica Allen said the DCFC could offer a transitional technology for the Australian manufacturing industry. “As much as some people feel strongly that we need to immediately move away from coal-fired power, we do not believe that this is realistic,” Dr Allen said. 

“The infrastructure development for this new technology will allow us to move away from fossil fuels over time.”