Neutron imaging of operando proton exchange membrane fuel cell with novel membrane

The performance of an alternative membrane based on aromatic multiblock copolymer was compared to that the conventional perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) polymer during fuel cell operation. with exhibited more severe voltage loss than at current densities above 0.6 A/cm2 fully saturated reactants. To rationalize this difference, operando high-resolution neutron imaging used investigate water distribution in cells, parallel impedance measurements. type strongly affected distribution, not only from anode cathode, but also in-plane between ribs and channels. Specifically, membrane, ionomer cathode catalyst layer less hydrated dried as density increased. ascribed drying rather accumulation liquid water, accordance evolution ohmic resistance. Furthermore, experienced swell/shrinkage resulting material shifts These results pinpoint developing new ionomers for cells require quantify bulk transport properties membranes PFSA, evaluate their interfacial impact management.