{"id":11360,"date":"2024-10-08T14:44:50","date_gmt":"2024-10-08T14:44:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/prod.zbt.compositas.io\/?page_id=11360"},"modified":"2025-08-01T13:39:22","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T13:39:22","slug":"membran-elektroden-einheiten","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/zbt.de\/en\/research\/fuel-cells\/membran-elektroden-einheiten\/","title":{"rendered":"Membrane Electrode Assemblies"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Membrane Electrode Assemblies<\/h1>\n

The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) forms the heart of both polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) and PEM electrolysers. In fuel cells, it is where chemical energy is converted into electrical energy, while in electrolysers, electrical energy is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. <\/h4>\n

In order to make this conversion or power generation process as efficient and stable<\/strong> as possible, targeted research is needed on the individual components and composite structures, taking into account the interactions between them. In particular, the production and transfer of catalyst layers<\/strong> onto the membrane involves a large number of possible manufacturing steps, each of which has its own parameter matrix. We value scalability<\/strong> from laboratory scale to roll-to-roll production and therefore take cost-efficient manufacturing strategies into account right from the start. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n

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Areas of work<\/h2>\n

We analyse electrochemical processes<\/strong> in fuel cells and electrolysis systems and characterise their components, such as catalysts, polymers, membranes and gas diffusion layers (GDS), using physical and chemical methods.<\/p>\n

<\/br>Another focus is on the development of efficient manufacturing technologies<\/strong> \u2013 from catalyst dispersions to electrode layers and catalyst-coated membranes (CCM) to complete membrane electrode assemblies (MEA).<\/p>\n

<\/br>By investigating harmful side reactions<\/strong>, we improve energy efficiency and extend the service life of key components.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n

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Coating processes and CCM production<\/h2>\n

We continuously develop and optimise our catalyst dispersions and coating processes<\/strong> \u2013 tailored to spray, inkjet or ultrasonic technology. We check the quality of the coatings using performance curves on our fuel cell test benches. <\/p>\n

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We use high-end technologies such as an ultrasonic coating unit<\/strong> with vacuum table, a precise inkjet system and a powerful hot press. This enables us to produce both indirect (I_CCM) and direct (D_CCM) coatings, as well as laminating electrodes and manufacturing edge-reinforced membranes. <\/p>\n

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Key technologies:<\/h4>\n