Abstract
Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) frequently utilize metallic bipolar plates because they are easy to manufacture, possess excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and have strong mechanical properties. However, the acidic environment within fuel cells can be corrosive to the metallic bipolar plate, which can gradually degrade its surface. This corrosion-induced degradation causes a reduction in performance over time due to decreased electrical conductivity, reduced mechanical integrity, and contamination of the electrolyte. Current corrosion characterization methods in bipolar plates involve lab-type equipment and cannot be performed while the fuel cell is in operation, decreasing their feasibility and practicality. Therefore, having the capability to characterize the corrosive state of the bipolar plate in real time is essential to reduce operational and maintenance costs while ensuring adequate performance of the fuel cell.A customized in-situ characterization method using ultrasound was utilized to assess the quality of the surface of a titanium bipolar plate while being exposed to a minute amount of sulfuric acid solution. Potentiostatic and potentiodynamic conditions at various temperatures (30-80 ºC) were tested to simulate the PEMFC operating environment. Corrosion was detected and monitored as it was induced on the surface of the bipolar plate. This non-destructive method is not only useful for characterizing the degradation of bipolar plates, but it can also help understand the corrosion dynamics of different materials at varying operating conditions.
Published Version
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