Ditch-structured microporous layers fabricated by nanosecond-pulse laser ablation for enhancing water transport in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

Abstract

Ditch-structured microporous layers were fabricated by nanosecond-pulse laser ablation for in-plane water transport improvement with various structural designs.

Hierarchical Wrinkle-Structured Catalyst Layer/Membrane Interface for Ultralow Pt-Loading Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)

“…As ECSA increased, the effective current density on the unit-active Pt surface reduced, which relieves the mass transport burden at the Pt surface . A limiting current measurement − was performed on the F- and G123–75-MEAs to verify the reason for the decreasing transport resistance in the CL (Figure S14). The gas transport resistance in CL of the G123–75-MEA was ∼36% lower than that of F-MEA.…”

Alternative architectures and materials for PEMFC gas diffusion layers: A review and outlook

“…Perforation of both the MPS and the MPL was found to be provide the greatest improvement to the MEA performance [30]. A significant body of work has been undertaken on the effect of perforation of the MPL on PEMFC performance [141][142][143][144][145].…”

“…Patterned microporous layers are an innovative design modification similar to MPL perforation with the purpose of creating areas on the MPL dedicated to the removal of liquid water [144,147]. Lee et al [144] used laser ablation to produce a ditch-like pattern on the MPL surface which were intended to act as channels for liquid water. MPLs were produced with perforations, and with ditches parallel and perpendicular to the channel; these were compared to a commercial MPL coated GDL.…”

Janus Gas Diffusion Layer for Enhanced Water Management in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)

“…To further demonstrate that the Janus GDL has a better water management capability, 6 h constant voltage discharges at 0.6 V were tested at 100 kPa absolute gas pressure. According to previous reports, liquid water first accumulates and blocks gas flow paths, causing a sudden buildup of local pressure and then the excess liquid water is quickly expelled. , This will lead to a quick drop and recovery of output (current density or voltage). ,,,− The periodic changes of output not only cause unstable, unreliable, and inconsistent performance but also degrade the durability. , As shown in Figure a,b, although it was run at a higher current density, the Janus GDL had better water management. First, more and harsher flooding hits the commercial GDL.…”