Uncovering Key Parameters in Perfluorosulfonic Acid (PFSA) Membrane Fuel Cells to Enhance Performance

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Conversion

Background:

• Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are crucial for sustainable energy, offering an alternative to fossil fuels.
• Optimizing membrane electrode assembly (MEA) preparation is vital for enhancing PEMFC efficiency and durability.
• Factors like catalytic layer (CL) interaction and gas accessibility critically impact cell performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of hot-pressing conditions and cell tightening on PEMFC performance.
• To evaluate the influence of different perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes (Aquivion®, Fumapem, Nafion®) under varying preparation parameters.
• To determine the effectiveness of cellulose paper as a pressure homogenizer during MEA preparation.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of hot-pressing methods (125°C/high pressure vs. 145°C/low pressure).
• Evaluation of MEA preparation with and without cellulose paper as a pressure homogenizer.
• Fuel cell performance testing and electrochemical characterization (cyclic voltammetry).

Main Results:

• The 145°C/low pressure hot-pressing method resulted in superior fuel cell performance compared to the 125°C/high pressure method.
• Incorporating cellulose paper increased current density by approximately 2.5 times.
• All MEAs showed similar platinum surface area, but higher-temperature pressing slightly reduced hydrogen desorption charge.

Conclusions:

• Hot-pressing temperature and pressure significantly influence PEMFC performance, with higher temperatures and lower pressures being more beneficial.
• Cellulose paper is an effective additive for improving MEA preparation and enhancing fuel cell efficiency.
• While bolt torque has inconsistent effects, optimal values can improve PEMFC performance under specific conditions.