Gas diffusion layer degradation in proton exchange membrane fuel cells: Mechanisms, characterization techniques and modelling approaches

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have been considered as a promising power source for electric vehicles. However, the widespread use of PEMFCs requires significant improvement in durability. As key component PEMFCs, gas diffusion layer (GDL) does not only provide mechanical support other cell components, but also governs mass, heat, and electron transport that directly affect performance. In this paper, latest research progress GDL durability is reviewed from three aspects: degradation mechanisms, experimental methods, modelling approaches. The six modes GDLs, namely chemical oxidation, electrochemical carbon corrosion, freezing/thawing, degradation, material dissolution erosion by flow are discussed under different operating conditions. Experimental techniques, including long-term accelerated stress tests (AST) methods measuring property deterioration then introduced. Several AST protocols developed to decouple above modes, few tried relate these with practice. Modelling approaches relating covered. Although various types models multiple purposes, complete model mechanistic level performance still missing. • structure morphology GDLs evolve modes. yet be quantitatively related A linking mechanisms loss