| abstract |
A fuel cell includes an electrolyte electrode assembly having a cathode disposed on a first side and an anode disposed on a second side of the electrolyte electrode assembly, a first flow module disposed adjacent the cathode, and a second flow module disposed adjacent the anode. At least one of the first and second flow modules includes a material suitable for exothermal hydride formation. In addition, a method for cold-starting a such fuel cell that includes flooding at least one of the first and second flow modules with a hydrogen-containing gas so as to induce the exothermic hydride formation and release heat; and heating the fuel cell using the heat. |