Identifying and developing renewable feedstocks for microporous layer in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

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Research into the creation of clean and renewable energy systems has been progressing quickly in an attempt to overcome the challenges of global warming and energy scarcity. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells generate electricity using hydrogen and oxygen through a catalyzed electrochemical reaction at low temperature and are a compelling option for clean mobility (medium to long range) and power generation. Despite great strides made in the consumer space, there has been public scrutiny about the environmental impacts of the components and manufacturing processes of PEM fuel cells, which undermine its potential as a green technology. The presence of different petroleum-based carbon components inside the fuel cells (catalyst support, gas diffusion layers, microporous layer and bipolar plate) is one such examples. This research seeks to address this by developing carbonaceous components from renewable feedstocks with superior properties for use in PEM fuel cells. In addition, research outcomes will contribute to adding value to the biomaterials by utilizing them in the energy materials space and integrating them into the manufacturing process to bring down fuel cell cost without sacrificing performance and durability. After nearly three decades of intensive research, PEM fuel cells have reached the early stage of commercial deployment; however, production costs remain high and durability and cell performance are limited. These challenges are related to the slow kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction occurring at the cathode side and the accumulation of water, which causes cell flooding. Applying a hydrophobic microporous layer (MPL) between the catalyst layer and the gas diffusion layer enhances water removal from the catalyst layer thus can alleviate this issue. The MPL also plays a crucial role in cell performance and durability; thus, the design and properties of the MPL must be optimized accordingly. Over the next five years, this research will focus on the development of a MPL from bio-based carbon materials with novel properties by: (i) Developing novel bio-based carbon powder with proper electrical and thermal conductivity, and functional groups; (ii) Developing proper slurry ink from mixing produced bio-based carbon materials to use a minimal amount of the hydrophobic agent (Fluoropolymers based materials) ; (iii) Developing a MPL with proper porosity and permeability from prepared slurry followed by heat treatment ; (iv) Testing and validating the bio-based MPL in scaled up single fuel cell stack as a competitive commercial option with low-cost, high performance and durability. This research program is well aligned with Canadian Hydrogen strategy and all students will benefit from multidisciplinary nature of this research and will gain expertise in the areas of biomaterials and fuel cells.