Understanding Membrane Failure in PEMFC: Comparison of Diagnostic Tools at Different Observation Scales

摘要: Polyelectrolyte membrane used in proton exchange fuel cell (PEMFC) should act as a barrier to hydrogen and electrons. In the present work, fast robust specific tools were developed both characterize these properties localize defects, such pinholes or short-circuits, within electrode assembly (MEA). The identification of defective cells without disassembling Axane's stack was performed single step through passive electrical technique so-called “relaxometry” by internal gas leak measurements. flaws further tracked inside MEA using Infrared Thermography order obtain their precise location. latter, after disassembly, permitted reveal defects responsible for Fuel Cell shutdown. A third dealt with SEM examinations identify origin nature failure.