Structural optimization of PEMFC membrane electrode assembly

Abstract

Membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is the core component of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), which provides the microchannels for the transfer of multiphase substances and electrochemical reaction sites. To achieve the commercialization of PEMFC, fabricating MEA with high power density, low Pt loading and good durability is needed. Inside MEA, the structures of function layers and the interfaces between layer to layer all have great impact on the performance of MEA outside of the catalyst. The MEA prepared by traditional methods (CCS method and CCM method) has many structural defects, which greatly reduces the utilization rate of Pt and the mass transfer ability. By optimizing the structure of each functional layer to eliminate defects, it will be beneficial to further improve the comprehensive performance of PEMFC. Based on the problems existing in the traditional MEA structure, literatures in recent years on the improvement of the structure of CL, PEM and GDL were combed, and the preparation methods, structure-activity relations, and advantages/disadvantages of each advanced structure were summarized. This paper will provide a guidance for the development of MEA with high performance, low cost and long service life in the future.