New York -- Manhattan Scientifics Inc. has entered into a joint agreement with Electrolux LLC and Lunar Design Inc. to develop an evaluation prototype of a fuel cell powered vacuum cleaner for residential use.

The prototype fuel cell that powers a portable vacuum cleaner will be designed and built by Manhattan Scientifics. The appliance is designed to free the user from electric cords and A/C wall plugs while providing full power cleaning performance. Potentially distinctive features in the market share battle for high-end vacuum cleaners are the unit's light weight and low noise coupled with freedom of movement throughout the home or business, the company says.

Electrolux’s power system will use Manhattan Scientifics' mid-range fuel technology developed by its partner company, NovArs GmbH. The fuel cell's design uses advanced composite materials and sealing technology, designed to minimize size and weight, makes it ideal as a power source for portable equipment, the company says. The system is a hydrogen/air system using hydrogen as fuel. It is expected to supply 1,000 watts of power at ambient pressure with minimum ancillary equipment.

The prototype is being developed on an accelerated timetable, and it is expected that significant weight and size reductions will be incorporated into subsequent prototypes.