Membrane electrode assemblies
Membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for research works on hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells with proton exchange membrane. In these cells the semiconducting membrane is a conductor only for protons, it blocks flow of other ions including oxygen ions flow from cathode to anode. The electrons must reach the cathode via electrical circuit producing the current that allows for devices power supplying.
The kit consists of a 50 µm-thick perfluoronated membrane, and a platinum loading of 0.5 mg/cm² (± 0.05), obtained with the standard catalyst concentration, 70% Pt/C.
- 3-layers MEA corresponds to a catalyst covered membrane (CCM): the proton exchanged membrane is covered with an ink containing the catalyst on the electroactive area. Platinum and Platinum-Ruthenium alloys are available for hydrogen and reformate operations respectively.
- 5-layers MEA corresponds to a CCM with gas diffusion layers (GDL) completing the electrodes on the electroactive area on both sides of the membrane.
- 7-layers MEA corresponds to a 5-layer MEA with a flat gasket (fiberglass reinforced silicon) around both electrodes.
A subgasket, protecting the membrane and the edges of the active layer can be added to 5- and 7-layer MEAs.
