Quantitative Multi-Scale Operando Diagnosis of Water Localization inside a Fuel Cell

摘要: We report on a quantitative method to diagnosewater distribution at various relevant length scales inside an operating proton membrane exchange fuel cell (PEMFC). By means of Small Angle Neutron Scattering experiments designed achieve unprecedented spatial and temporal resolutions, we provide the first mapping local water quantity, simultaneously over entire as well polymer membrane, analyze observed heterogeneities in light functional parameters. evidence non-homogeneous scale flow field pattern, with significant differences content front channel ribs, both outside depending positions close gas inlet or outlet. In particular, it is shown that amount liquid hydration state are not directly cross-correlated. The operando level unit allows us identify major phenomena controlling formation and/or accumulation, therefore providing unique insights improve complex behavior cell. (C) 2016 Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.