A method of production and apparatus for a fuel cell having three nested
truncated cones. The inner cone is made of a porous metal sponge, such as
nickel, and provides a media through which fuel can pass. The second cone
is provided around the inner cone in use, and acts as a diffuser for the
fuel to promote efficient contact with the third cone. The third cone is
the fuel cell itself and includes an electrolyte component which provides
a gas impermeable layer between fuel and oxidation sides of the cell. A
cathode and anode are provided on outer and inner surfaces respectively
of the electrolyte component. The fuel cell is configured such that the
lower surface of the fuel cell has a cross-sectional profile of greater
area than the top surface. The top surface has an aperture allowing fuel
to exit the diffuser cone.