Understanding the Break-in of PEM Fuel Cells: A Comprehensive Study of Break-in Methods and Underlying Mechanisms

Abstract

The break-in process of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells is critical for their performance and durability. While there is a rising number of publications on break-in procedures, a comprehensive comparison of break-in procedures is missing. In this study, we investigate the impact of several break-in procedures, including potentiostatic holds, potential cycling, air starvation, and hydrogen pumping, on the performance of PEM fuel cells using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and polarization curves. The measurements provide valuable insights into the underlying break-in mechanisms that contribute to the activation of the catalyst layers, the membrane and the interface of both. The results can guide the optimization of break-in protocols and reduce the break-in time and, therefore, the production costs of PEM fuel cells.