Review
Chemistry, Physical
E. Pahon, D. Hissel, N. Yousfi-Steiner
Summary: This paper reviews the accelerated stress testing in fuel cell stack testing, including degradation mechanisms and testing protocols for different components. In addition to the standardized testing methods provided by the Department of Energy, other recent testing protocols are also reviewed.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Huanming Li, Feifei Bi, Liang Dong, Zhutian Xu, Xiaobo Li, Fei Zhou, Chenyao Fan, Weiyu Shi, Linfa Peng, Xinmin Lai
Summary: Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are considered promising energy devices for transportation due to their efficiency and cleanliness. However, metallic bipolar plates (BPPs) face a durability problem. Currently, the lack of scientific, efficient, and low-cost evaluation methods limits the development of metallic BPPs. We propose a novel ex-situ accelerated durability evaluation method based on quantitative analysis of voltage loss and metal ions released from metallic BPPs. The method's availability and accuracy were verified through comparison of microstructures after in-situ and ex-situ testing. This method is of great significance for developing metallic BPPs with higher durability.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Elena Colombo, Andrea Baricci, Daniele Mora, Laure Guetaz, Andrea Casalegno
Summary: Automotive Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) need to improve durability for better competitiveness. Single cell accelerated stress tests (ASTs) have been standardized to accelerate the development of durable materials. However, current ASTs are not easily correlated with real-world aging. To address this issue, a new hydrogen/air AST was developed to comprehensively mimic the driving functioning. The aging results of state-of-the-art PEMFC were successfully correlated with realistic load cycling, showing a 10-fold acceleration in time.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Asif Jamil, Sikander Rafiq, Tanveer Iqbal, Hafiza Aroosa Aslam Khan, Haris Mahmood Khan, Babar Azeem, M. Z. Mustafa, Abdulkader S. Hanbazazah
Summary: Fuel cells are environmentally friendly technology with high efficiency and economic advantages. Proton exchange membranes, especially for hydrogen fuel cells, have great potential but face challenges in terms of cost and degradation of proton exchange capacity over time.
Article
Electrochemistry
Haosen Xu, Shangshang Wang, Dechun Si, Jianbo Zhang
Summary: Cold start is a challenge for the diffusion of fuel cell vehicles in cold regions. The alternating hydrogen pump (AHP) method provides a fast, efficient, and reliable startup without concerns of freezing. However, puzzling phenomena related to current variation and high frequency resistance (HFR) change are observed during the AHP under constant voltage mode. These phenomena, which affect the efficiency and speed of cold starts, are not well understood. In this study, a one-dimensional transient model is developed to explain these phenomena and has the potential for optimizing the cold start process.
JOURNAL OF THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Zhiguang Hua, Zhixue Zheng, Elodie Pahon, Marie-Cecile Pera, Fei Gao
Summary: Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) system is a promising power converter device in various applications, especially in transportation. However, insufficient service life is a major obstacle for its commercialization. Prognostic and health management (PHM) can extend the service life of PEMFC by estimating the remaining useful life (RUL) in advance and making appropriate decisions through condition-based maintenance. Accurate degradation models and reliable prediction methods are critical challenges for PHM, particularly under dynamic operating conditions.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yuwei Pan, Huizhi Wang, Nigel P. Brandon
Summary: This paper reviews the latest research progress of gas diffusion layer (GDL) durability from three aspects: degradation mechanisms, experimental methods, and modelling approaches. The six degradation modes of GDLs and experimental techniques for measuring property deterioration are discussed, as well as the development of modeling approaches relating to GDL degradation.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Qianwen Tang, Bing Li, Daijun Yang, Pingwen Ming, Cunman Zhang, Yanbo Wang
Summary: The article reviews the literature on hydrogen crossover in PEMFC, covering consequences, causes, mitigation measures, and detection methods. It discusses the influences of hydrogen crossover on the components and performance, analyzes the causes, and summarizes methods to alleviate membrane degradation. Various monitoring methods are described, providing a foundation for further research and improvement in fuel cell durability.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ye Peng, Ja-Yeon Choi, Kyoung Bai, Yi Zhang, Dustin Banham
Summary: Fuel starvation events in proton exchange membrane fuel cells occur when flow fields are blocked, leading to 'reversal' events that degrade the anode catalyst layer. The use of reversal tolerant catalysts like IrOx can mitigate this damage. Evaluating reversal tolerance at the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) level involves galvanostatic and pulsing tests, with pulsing experiments resulting in more severe anode damage than galvanostatic testing for the same total reversal time.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Seyed Hesam Mirfarsi, Mohammad Javad Parnian, Soosan Rowshanzamir, Erik Kjeang
Summary: Due to the demand for reliable and economical fuel cells, researchers have focused on improving the durability of hydrocarbon-based proton exchange membranes (PEMs) without compromising performance. Cross-linking and blending techniques show promising potential in creating a 3D network within the membrane structure, resulting in improved long-term stability and durability. These membranes have demonstrated over 4000 hours of durability in hydrogen fuel cells and significantly lower methanol crossover compared to conventional fluorinated membranes, indicating their potential for commercialization.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yange Yang, Xiangyang Zhou, Bing Li, Cunman Zhang
Summary: This study conducted in-situ durability tests on gas diffusion layers in proton exchange membrane fuel cells under actual working conditions, finding that degradation of the gas diffusion layer is a major factor contributing to decreased power density in the stack. It offers new insights for investigating the durability of stacks and gas diffusion layers.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Kun Wang, Ning Li, Yanan Yang, Shaojie Ke, Zhengping Zhang, Meiling Dou, Feng Wang
Summary: Under simulated automotive load-cycling operation, higher load amplitude leads to more severe degradation of fuel cell performance, mainly due to the faster growth of Pt nanoparticles in the cathodic catalyst layer and resulting degradation of the catalyst. Additionally, detected microstructure changes in the cathodic catalyst layer contribute to performance failure.
CHINESE CHEMICAL LETTERS
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Zunmin Guo, Maria Perez-Page, Jianuo Chen, Zhaoqi Ji, Stuart M. Holmes
Summary: Efforts to design and develop phosphoric acid-based proton exchange membrane for high-temperature fuel cells have been made globally. Various approaches, including crosslinking, introducing antioxidative groups, and incorporating inorganic materials, have been proposed to mitigate the degradation of the membranes. Crosslinking, blending with stable polymers and inorganic materials, and preparing polymers with high molecular weight are recommended to improve membrane mechanical strength. Three promising approaches to improve the durability of HT-PEMFCs include crosslinking, incorporating hygroscopic inorganic materials, and increasing membrane layers or introducing strong basic groups and electron-withdrawing groups.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Binghui Liu, Yuting Duan, Yang Pang, Qijia Li, Chengji Zhao
Summary: In this study, thin and highly durable reinforced membranes were prepared by immobilizing caffeic acid, an organic radical scavenger, on a fibrous PTFE supporting layer decorated with amino-functionalized MOF. The reinforced membranes exhibited superior proton conductivity, enhanced mechanical properties and dimensional stability, and reduced hydrogen crossover. Compared to recast Nafion, the composite membrane achieved a higher power density and lower voltage decay rate. These findings demonstrate a promising approach for developing durable and thin PEMs for PEMFCs.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Lei Liu, Yijing Xing, Yifan Li, Zhiyong Fu, Zhuoqun Li, Haibin Li
Summary: In this study, double layers of ePTFE reinforcement were intercalated into PFSA ionomer to improve the mechanical durability of PEMs. The double-layer ePTFE reinforcement significantly increased the mechanical strength and reduced the area swelling rate. Additionally, the double-layer ePTFE enhanced membranes showed better performance and durability under alternating wet/dry conditions compared to single-layer ePTFE reinforced membranes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tianyu Chen, Zhibin Lu, Guangjin Zeng, Yongmin Xie, Jie Xiao, Zhifeng Xu
Summary: The study introduces a high-performance LSGM electrolyte-supported tubular DC-SOFC stack for portable applications, which shows great potential in developing into high-performing, efficient, and environmentally friendly portable power sources for distributed applications.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Wenbin Tong, Yili Chen, Shijie Gong, Shaokun Zhu, Jie Tian, Jiaqian Qin, Wenyong Chen, Shuanghong Chen
Summary: In this study, a three-dimensional porous NiO interface layer with enhanced anode dynamics is fabricated, forming a Schottky contact with the zinc substrate, allowing rapid and uniform zinc plating both inside and below the interface layer. The resulting NiO@Zn exhibits exceptional stability and high capacity retention.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yafeng Bai, Kaidi Li, Liying Wang, Yang Gao, Xuesong Li, Xijia Yang, Wei Lu
Summary: In this study, a flexible zinc ion supercapacitor with gel electrolytes, porous alpha-MnO2@reduced graphene oxide cathode, and activated carbon/carbon cloth anode was developed. The device exhibits excellent electrochemical performance and stability, even at low temperatures, with a high cycle retention rate after 5000 cycles.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Anmol Jnawali, Matt D. R. Kok, Francesco Iacoviello, Daniel J. L. Brett, Paul R. Shearing
Summary: This article presents the results of a systematic study on the electrochemical performance and mechanical changes in two types of commercial batteries with different anode chemistry. The study reveals that the swelling of anode layers in batteries with silicon-based components causes deformations in the jelly roll structure, but the presence of a small percentage of silicon does not significantly impact the cycling performance of the cells within the relevant state-of-health range for electric vehicles (EVs). The research suggests that there is room for improving the cell capacities by increasing the silicon loading in composite anodes to meet the increasing demands on EVs.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yohandys A. Zulueta, My Phuong Pham-Ho, Minh Tho Nguyen
Summary: Advanced atomistic simulations were used to study ion transport in the Na- and K-doped lithium disilicate Li2Si2O5. The results showed that Na and K doping significantly enhanced Li ion diffusion and conduction in the material.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Zongying Han, Hui Dong, Yanru Yang, Hao Yu, Zhibin Yang
Summary: An efficient phase inversion-impregnation approach is developed to fabricate BaO-decorated Ni8 mol% YSZ anode-supported tubular solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with anti-coking properties. BaO nanoislands are successfully introduced inside the Ni-YSZ anode, leading to higher peak power densities and improved stability in methane fuel. Density functional theory calculations suggest that the loading of BaO nanoislands facilitates carbon elimination by capturing and dissociating H2O molecules to generate OH.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Suresh Mamidi, Dan Na, Baeksang Yoon, Henu Sharma, Anil D. Pathak, Kisor Kumar Sahu, Dae Young Lee, Cheul-Ro Lee, Inseok Seo
Summary: Li-CO2 batteries, which utilize CO2 and have a high energy density, are hindered in practical applications due to slow kinetics and safety hazards. This study introduces a stable and highly conductive ceramic-based solid electrolyte and a metal-organic framework catalyst to improve the safety and performance of Li-CO2 batteries. The optimized Li-CO2 cell shows outstanding specific capacity and cycle life, and the post-cycling analysis reveals the degradation mechanism of the electrodes. First-principles calculations based on density functional theory are also performed to understand the interactions between the catalyst and the host electrode. This research demonstrates the potential of MOF cathode catalyst for stable operation in Li-CO2 batteries.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ganghua Xiang, Zhihuan Qiu, Huilong Fei, Zhigang Liu, Shuangfeng Yin, Yuen Wu
Summary: In this study, a CeFeOx-supported Pt single atoms and subnanometric clusters catalyst was developed, which exhibits enhanced catalytic activity and stability for the preferential oxidation of CO in H2-rich stream through synergistic effect.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dimitrios Chatzogiannakis, Marcus Fehse, Maria Angeles Cabanero, Natalia Romano, Ashley Black, Damien Saurel, M. Rosa Palacin, Montse Casas-Cabanas
Summary: By coupling electrochemical testing to operando synchrotron based X-ray absorption and powder diffraction experiments, blended positive electrodes consisting of LiMn2O4 spinel (LMO) and layered LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 (NMC) were studied to understand their redox mechanism. It was found that blending NMC with LMO can enhance energy density at high rates, with the blend containing 25% LMO showing the best performance. Testing with a special electrochemical setup revealed that the effective current load on each blend component can vary significantly from the nominal rate and also changes with SoC. Operando studies allowed monitoring of the oxidation state evolution and changes in crystal structure, in line with the expected behavior of individual components considering their electrochemical current loads.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Chiara Cementon, Daniel Dewar, Thrinathreddy Ramireddy, Michael Brennan, Alexey M. Glushenkov
Summary: This Perspective discusses the specific power and power density of lithium-ion capacitors, highlighting the fact that their power characteristics are often underestimated. Through analysis, it is found that lithium-ion capacitors can usually achieve power densities superior to electrochemical supercapacitors, making them excellent alternatives to supercapacitors.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Weihao Wang, Hao Yu, Li Ma, Youquan Zhang, Yuejiao Chen, Libao Chen, Guichao Kuang, Liangjun Zhou, Weifeng Wei
Summary: This study achieved an improved electrolyte with excellent low-temperature and high-voltage performance by regulating the Li+ solvation structure and highly concentrating it. The electrolyte exhibited outstanding oxidation potential and high ionic conductivity under low temperature and high voltage conditions, providing a promising approach for the practical application of high-voltage LIBs.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Martin Bures, Dan Gotz, Jiri Charvat, Milos Svoboda, Jaromir Pocedic, Juraj Kosek, Alexandr Zubov, Petr Mazur
Summary: Vanadium redox flow battery is a promising energy storage solution with long-term durability, non-flammability, and high overall efficiency. Researchers have developed a mathematical model to simulate the charge-discharge cycling of the battery, and found that hydraulic connection of electrolyte tanks is the most effective strategy to reduce capacity losses, achieving a 69% reduction.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
M. Rodriguez-Gomez, J. Campo, A. Orera, F. de La Fuente, J. Valenciano, H. Fricke, D. S. Hussey, Y. Chen, D. Yu, K. An, A. Larrea
Summary: In this study, we analysed the operando performance of industrial lead cells using neutron diffraction experiments. The experiments revealed the evolution of different phases in the positive electrode, showed significant inhomogeneity of phase distribution inside the electrode, and estimated the energy efficiency of the cells.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jiawei Liu, Chenpeng Wang, Yue Yao, Hao Ye, Yinglong Liu, Yingli Liu, Xiaoru Xu, Zhicong Chen, Huazheng Yang, Gang Wu, Libin Lei, Chao Wang, Bo Liang
Summary: The study focuses on utilizing double conductive Ni-pads as anode collectors in micro-tubular solid oxide fuel cells. The simulation results show excellent performance and stability of DCNPs, and also highlight the potential applications in various fields.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yang Wang, Kangjie Zhou, Lang Cui, Jiabing Mei, Shengnan Li, Le Li, Wei Fan, Longsheng Zhang, Tianxi Liu
Summary: This study presents a polyimide sandwiched separator (s-PIF) for improving the cycling stability of Li-metal batteries. The s-PIF separator exhibits superior mechanical property, electrolyte adsorption/retention and ion conductivity, and enables dendrite-free Li plating/stripping process.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)