powertrekkcell-492x0_q85_crop-smart-1

Can you imagine using a tablespoon of water to charge your cellphone? This fantastic idea might become a reality sooner than you think. The FC PowerTrekk unit is a fuel cell, and it’s also a battery pack, and it can charge anything that uses a USB cord. You just add water, and the fuel cell produces energy, while the battery pack stores it.

Reader support makes our work possible. Donate today to keep our site free. All donations TRIPLED!

Here’s a deeper explanation from the manufacturers themselves:

At the heart of myFC PowerTrekk is myFC’s proprietary FuelCellSticker technology. Made from foils and adhesives, these FuelCellStickers form a flexible assembly less than 2.75mm thick. Since the hydrogen fuel can be supplied from several alternative sources, the system is “flexifuel”.

Grist thanks its sponsors. Become one.

The fuel cell inside myFC PowerTrekk is a completely passive system. Without fans or pumps, the fuel cell silently converts hydrogen into electricity via its Proton Exchange Membrane.

The chemistry process is safe, controllable and eco-friendly, and the only bi-product from the fuel cell is a little water vapor. To operate, hydrogen must be supplied to the fuel cell, and the fuel cell must be exposed to the open air.

The FC PowerTrekk unit will be available soon. It’s not cheap — it’s going to sell for about $229 — but like similar contraptions, it pays for itself. (Although we do have to point out that the BioLite camp stove charger is only $129.95 AND you get soup. We are not in the pay of BioLite; we just approve of soup.) If you want one, go to the website and let them know.