Lifetime evaluation and material failure analysis of a PEMFC prepared using commercial materials

Abstract

ABSTRACT Hydrogen fuel cells are vital for green energy to replace traditional energy. However, their lifetime is an important factor limiting their development. In this study, commercial materials were used to prepare proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), and pure oxygen was used as the cathode gas to accelerate their lifetime evaluation. The components of the membrane electrode assembly were characterized, and significant thinning was observed in the local proton exchange membrane (PEM). Therefore, the uniformity of the internal conditions of the fuel cell is the key to ensure a long lifetime. The hydrophilicity of the gas diffusion layers increased as the carbon disorder increased via the adsorption of hydrophilic chain segments produced by PEM degradation. The growth of platinum particles in the catalyst layer reduced the electrochemical active area of the catalyst, but the reduction rate slowed and then stabilized. This study of the lifetime of PEMFCs and changing properties of commercial materials clarifies the existing problems of fuel cells and contributes to the development of long-life fuel cells.