The influence of patterned microporous layer on the proton exchange membrane fuel cell performances
Shunzhong Wang, Kadi Hu, Wei Chen, Yali Cao, Linan Wang, Zhichang Wang, Lirui Cui, Mingzheng Zhou, Wei Zhu, Hui Li, Zhongbin Zhuang
Abstract
The ordered membrane electrode assembly (MEA) has gained much attention because of its potential in improving mass transfer. Here, a comprehensive study was conducted on the influence of the patterned microporous layer (MPL) on the proton exchange membrane fuel cell performances. When patterned MPL is employed, grooves are generated between the catalyst layer and the gas diffusion layer. It is found that the grooves do not increase the contact resistance, and it is beneficial for water retention. When the MEA works under low humidity scenarios, the MEA with patterned MPL illustrated higher performance, due to the reduced inner resistance caused by improved water retention, leading to increased ionic conductivity. However, when the humidity is higher than 80% or working under high current density, the generated water accumulated in the grooves and hindered the oxygen mass transport, leading to a reduced MEA performance.