A Study on the Current status of Metal Bipolar Plate Materials and Stamping and Forming for Fuel Cells

Abstract

Bipolar plates are one of the most important components in fuel cell stacks and have multiple functions. Compared with composite materials, bipolar plates of metallic materials have superior electrical and thermal conductivity, good mechanical strength, high chemical stability, very wide choice of alloys, and coating techniques are employed to improve their corrosion resistance and reduce their bottom contact resistance. This paper investigates the selection of materials and stamping and forming of metal bipolar plates in the hope that this research can promote the development of metal bipolar plates for fuel cells. On this basis, we expect to innovate the material and fabrication process of metal bipolar plates, reduce their cost, and promote their commercialization.