Integrated manufacturing of novel fuel cell electrodes and membrane electrode assemblies

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Fuel cell technology is currently one of the most exciting fields in the area of new energy development with high scientific and technological challenges. Progress made up to now in the field of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) technology offers large perspectives of applications. The interest in this environmentally benign technology has grown during the last years due to the Kyoto protocol requirements. However, a drastic decrease in PEMFC cost is needed prior to the widespread acceptance of PEMFC as automotive power systems. The main objective of this proposal is to develop a state-of-the art methodology, based on coextrusion process, to prepare high performance and low-cost electrodes and membrane-electrode assemblies, MEA, for PEMFC. Conventional materials presently used for PEMFC electrodes will be replaced in this project by new formulations based on highly filled thermoplastic polymers. The Proton Exchange Membranes, PEM, presently made from perfluorosulfonic acid ionomers, such as Dupont's Nafion, will be replaced by new membranes developed in the laboratory of S. Kaliaguine, co-applicant in this proposal. The high performances of these membranes, in particular their proton conductivities, often higher than Nafion, make them good PEM candidates. The proposed project will be realized in collaboration with two Canadian industrial partners: Palcan Fuel Cells Ltd., Burnaby (BC), and SiM Composites Inc., Quebec.