Fuel cell technology is an essential element in the decarbonisation of heavy-duty transport. In addition to costs, the current service life of fuel cell systems is a major barrier to market penetration, as these applications require a service life of at least 20,000 operating hours. Gaseous and particulate contamination in the gases supplied to the anode and cathode sides are a major cause of accelerated degradation of LT PEM fuel cells, so the required purity must be ensured by suitable filters. To design the filters, it is necessary to know the type and concentration of the critical contaminants. In recent years, information on European concentration profiles of contaminants in the air and in hydrogen has been significantly increased through various research projects and the establishment of analysis laboratories. However, this information is not available for the important Chinese target market.

The aim of the project is to gain a deeper understanding of the actual contaminants present in hydrogen and air in China and to demonstrate the positive effect of remedial measures. As part of the project, air and hydrogen samples will be taken in China, transported to Germany under protective conditions and analysed by the project partners. The harmful influence of the impurities will be simulated in the laboratory and the life-extending effect of specific filters for fuel cells will be demonstrated on the test bench. This will strengthen the position of the German supply industry in the international competitive environment, especially in the growth market of China.