Fuel Cells - Polymer-Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell, Membranes: Design and Characterization

In this chapter, we provide an overview of various ex-situ and in-situ diagnostic tests developed to quantitatively screen proton-exchange membranes (PEMs) for automotive fuel cell applications. These tests assess the performance and mechanical and chemical durability of the membrane. A comparison of the measured lifetimes of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) and sulfonated aromatic hydrocarbon membranes under accelerated test conditions reveals the inherent differences between the two membrane chemistries. The next generation of alternative PEMs must be designed with low cost and high durability as key considerations. This chapter includes numerous examples of metrics and guidelines that can guide the design of future membranes for automotive applications.