Abstract
Degradation mechanisms occurring during proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) operation critically depend on the applied electrical load profile. In this work, durability tests were performed using different load cycling ranges. The tests include refresh procedures in order to recover temporary performance losses. Operando current density distribution measurements as well as electrochemical characterization techniques were applied to obtain essential data for understanding degradation behavior of the components of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). The analysis is supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray diffraction (EDX) analysis of MEA components. Dynamic load cycling has proven to lead to lower performance losses as compared to constant load operation. Moreover, reversible performance losses were associated with an increased heterogeneity of the current density distribution along the flow field. Thereby, areas with high local current density exhibit particularly strong Pt band formation in the membrane linked with a thinning of the cathode catalyst layer.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
