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Title: Low cost fuel cell diffusion layer configured for optimized anode water management

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1093364
; ; ;

A fuel cell comprises a cathode gas diffusion layer, a cathode catalyst layer, an anode gas diffusion layer, an anode catalyst layer and an electrolyte. The diffusion resistance of the anode gas diffusion layer when operated with anode fuel is higher than the diffusion resistance of the cathode gas diffusion layer. The anode gas diffusion layer may comprise filler particles having in-plane platelet geometries and be made of lower cost materials and manufacturing processes than currently available commercial carbon fiber substrates. The diffusion resistance difference between the anode gas diffusion layer and the cathode gas diffusion layer may allow for passive water balance control.

Research Organization:
DOEEE (USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EE) (United States))
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
EE0000470
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC (Detroit, MI)
Patent Number(s):
8,518,596
Application Number:
13/473,104
OSTI ID:
1093364
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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