Flexible and Lightweight Fuel Cell with High Specific Power Density

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Flexible devices require compact, high-energy-density power sources.
• Traditional proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are too rigid and heavy for flexible applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To invent a lightweight and flexible air-breathing PEMFC suitable for flexible devices.
• To enhance the power density and durability of PEMFCs for portable applications.

Main Methods:

• Designed a novel proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) structure.
• Utilized a flexible composite electrode for improved performance and durability.

Main Results:

• Developed a flexible air-breathing PEMFC (1 cm² working area) weighing 0.065 g and 0.22 mm thin.
• Achieved a high specific volume power density of 5190 W L⁻¹.
• Demonstrated excellent durability, retaining 89.1% performance after 600 bends and full performance after multiple drops.

Conclusions:

• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) can be engineered to be light, flexible, and suitable for flexible devices.
• The developed flexible PEMFCs offer high specific power density, small size, low weight, and potential for mass production.
• These advancements could significantly impact the field of PEMFCs and enable new mobile applications.