An experimental approach to evaluate drying kinetics and foam formation in inks for inkjet printing of fuel-cell layers

Inkjet printing is a deposition technique that has remarkably evolved over the last two decades, becoming widely employed for various applications. Notably, it proven very promising catalyst and ionomer layer in assembling CCM (Catalyst Coated Membranes) of PEMFC (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells). However, fast drying processed inks at outlet often causes nozzle clogging foam formation within supply circuit yields poor release: these are main challenges applying inkjet on large scale. So, an experimental approach evaluation kinetics typically fuel-cell manufacturing presented. It allows to evaluate ink printability, compare different quantitatively assess performance commonly used additives. Evaluation based releasing droplets onto support, then recording mass, ambient temperature relative humidity. Foam evaluated by filling syringe with known amount ink, injecting air set flow rate into sampling volume: may be ultimately generated its can measured. Those relatively simple approaches were applied inks; validation was conducted statistical analysis comparison physical relationships datasets available open literature.