Abstract
In this research, the synthesis of a suitable nanocomposite in terms of properties and economics for use in bipolar plates in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) has been carried out successfully. Nowadays, bipolar plates play a significant role in fuel cells which is absolutely important in renewable energy industry. So, epoxy/graphite/nano-copper nanocomposite bipolar plates are prepared by bulk molding compound process. Graphite and nano-copper were added as primary and secondary fillers to the composite, respectively. Epoxy resin was selected since fabrication bulk molding can be done with ease and also because of its lower cost compared to other materials. Although graphite could increase conductive characteristics, it is not sufficient for bipolar plates. Therefore, we boost the conductive properties by increasing nano-copper. Due to the small size of nanoscale copper, it can be well dispersed in polymer and graphite matrix; nano-copper can release conductive properties perfectly throughout the composite. Different percentages of nano-copper, graphite and constant percentage of epoxy are used for this purpose. The electrical resistance, flexural strength, and density of composites were measured according to the applicable standards. The morphology of the prepared plate was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) found that fillers disperse well in the matrix. Innovations in this work include improving properties and increasing the efficiency of the nanocomposite by adding metal nanoparticles (copper).Graphical
Highlights
Energy and creating new sources of energy has turned into a debatable issue. As we know, the largest source of energy is derived from fossil fuel
Today, energy and creating new sources of energy has turned into a debatable issue
This decrease is evident from 3 to 5% of nano-copper and reached 1200 while the electrical resistance of the composite of epoxy/graphite was determined to be 7400. This result shows that the addition of nano-copper to the composite of epoxy/graphite may enhance the electrical conductivity of this composite
Summary
Energy and creating new sources of energy has turned into a debatable issue. As we know, the largest source of energy is derived from fossil fuel. Keywords Bipolar plate · Nanocomposite · Fuel cell · Nano-copper · Graphite Nanocomposite conducting plates (CPs) are widely used alternative materials for bipolar plates in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) due to good corrosion resistance, good electrical and thermal conductivity, low cost, easy fabrication, and suitable weight instead of metal and graphite alone.
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