Scientists at ZBT are not the only ones searching for novel active materials and electrode structures for PEM-based hydrogen energy converters such as fuel cells and electrolysers. This can be a lengthy and costly process.
The SmarTestMEA joint project is therefore currently developing a process that will make the development and optimisation of such materials and structures more targeted, faster and more cost-effective. The idea is to simplify electrochemical characterisation without the use of hydrogen. This would significantly reduce safety risks.
A central component of the project is the development of an intelligent and safe test bench with a novel measuring cell based on hydraulic pressing. This system allows both PEMWE anodes and PEMFC cathodes to be examined simultaneously. The aim is to make electrochemical testing more efficient. This should accelerate improvements in the performance, service life and cost-effectiveness of the technologies. It should also reduce the use of precious metals.
For PEMWE anodes, the focus is on electron-conductive, corrosion-resistant catalyst supports coated with iridium. For PEMFC cathodes, the catalyst layer structure is optimised using platinum gradients and novel highly conductive carbons such as carbon nanofibres and graphene are used to improve electrical conductivity and mass transport.
The scientific and technical work of the ZBT in the project focuses on the following:
- Optimisation of PEMFC cathodes
- MEA preparation and optimisation
- Electrochemical and design consulting for the implementation of the SmarTest MEA concept in the test bench
- Ex-situ and in-situ electrochemical tests, including ageing tests of the developed electrochemical components
Project title:
Electrodes for PEMWE and PEMFC based on innovative support materials and their reproducible testing in a novel MEA test system – SmarTestMEA
Project period:
15 July 2024 – 14 July 2027
Funding code:
IN-WP-012b, EFRE-20800177
Project partners:
- HSWmaterials GmbH, Kamp-Lintfort
- ZBT – The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center, Duisburg
- Westphalian University of Applied Sciences Gelsenkirchen Bocholt Recklinghausen (WHS), Gelsenkirchen
- Institute for Environment & Energy, Technology & Analytics (IUTA), Duisburg
- ProPuls GmbH, Gelsenkirchen
Funding information:
The SmarTestMEA project – electrodes for electrolysis and fuel cells and their testing in a new test system – is funded by the European Union and the state of North Rhine-Westphalia as part of the EFRE/JTF programme NRW 2021–2027. Funding code: EFRE-20800177. It is also part of the Industrie.in.NRW innovation competition (funding code IN-WP-012b).
Electrochemical Components Department
