Full Parametric Study of the Influence of Ionomer Content, Catalyst Loading and Catalyst Type on Oxygen and Ion Transport in PEM Fuel Cell Catalyst Layers

To advance the technology of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, material development is at the forefront of research. This is especially true for membrane electrode assembly, where the structuring of its various layers has proven to be directly linked to performance increase. In this study, we investigate the influence of the various ingredients in the cathode catalyst layer, such as ionomer content, catalyst loading and catalyst type, on the oxygen and ion transport using a full parametric analysis. Using two types of catalysts, 40 wt.% Pt/C and 60 wt.% Pt/C with high surface area carbon, the ionomer/carbon content was varied between 0.29-1.67, while varying the Pt loading in the range of 0.05-0.8 mg cm−2. The optimum ionomer content was found to be dependent on the operating point and condition, as well as catalyst loading and type. The data set provided in this work gives a starting point to further understanding of structured catalyst layers.