PEM cathode samples with acceptable conductivity, surface area, oxygen reduction activity and selectivity are tested in an Arbin Instruments 50W Fuel Cell Test Stand. Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs) are prepared by standard techniques developed in the HCRG using commercial Nafion membranes and Vulcan carbon supported Pt anodes.

The PEM and DMFC testing capabilities include:

  • Control of current, potential, temperature, back-pressure, humidity, flowrate
  • Evaluation of current density
  • Evaluation of overpotential
  • Characterization of deactivation as a result of:
    • Changes in carbon bonding
    • Nature of metal centers
    • Possibility of metal leaching
    • Changes in nano-structure

    CNx cathode materials  are compared against a commercial platinum cathode.  The Arbin Fuel Cell Test Stand allows for programmable voltage control and computer automated current data collection while maintaining the fuel cell testing conditions through the software. 

    Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) being prepared by decal method.