A comprehensive assessment on the durability of gas diffusion electrode materials in PEM fuel cell stack

Abstract

Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell is the most promising among the various types of fuel cells. Though it has found its applications in numerous fields, the cost and durability are key barriers impeding the commercialization of PEM fuel cell stack. The crucial and expensive component involved in it is the gas diffusion electrode (GDE) and its degradation, which limits the performance and life of the fuel cell stack. A critical analysis and comprehensive understanding of the structural and functional properties of various materials involved in the GDE can help us to address the related durability and cost issues. This paper reviews the key GDE components, and in specific, the root causes influencing the durability. It also envisages the role of novel materials and provides a critical recommendation to improve the GDE durability.

Keywords

PEM fuel cell / gas diffusion electrode(GDE) / gas diffusion layer(GDL) / membrane electrode assembly / durability / fuel cell catalyst

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the management of Chennai Institute of Technology for extending their support and Jo Stone for an effective proofreading.

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