Abstract
Synchrotron-based Compton scattering imaging with intense high-energy X-rays allows the visualization of light element substances in an electrochemical device under an operando condition. In this study, we apply this imaging technique to a water-contained, porous carbon-based composite, which is used as a material for the gas diffusion layer in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Analyses of the two-dimensional intensity images of Compton scattered X-rays provide the cross-sectional distributions of liquid water, as well as the depth dependency of the water content. In addition, the analyses reveal a significant interaction between the carbon materials and water droplets.
Highlights
PEFC (Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell) technologies are drawing much attention due to their clean emission, high power density and low temperature operation [1]
In PEFCs, the proton conductivity of the polymer electrolyte membranes depends on the water content, and excessive liquid water hinders electrochemical reactions at catalyst sites
The liquid water content and its inhomogeneous distributions have been reported by neutron radiography [5,6,7,8,9,10] and X-ray computed tomography (CT) [11,12,13,14,15]
Summary
PEFC (Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell) technologies are drawing much attention due to their clean emission, high power density and low temperature operation [1]. These attractive features have made PEFCs a promising candidate for the next-generation power source of transportation and portable applications. The liquid water content and its inhomogeneous distributions have been reported by neutron radiography [5,6,7,8,9,10] and X-ray computed tomography (CT) [11,12,13,14,15] This experimental information is indispensable to simulation and modelling of PEFCs
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