Spraying PEM Fuel Cells Coatings

PEM fuel cells refer to proton exchange membrane (PEM) or polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells where a proton conductive membrane is used as the electrolyte and at the same time as the separator in the electrochemical cell to separate the anode from the cathode. Because this type of fuel cell membrane electrolyte operates on protons, any easily oxidizable hydrogen rich fuel. Under ambient conditions, the anode and cathode require an electrocatalyst to promote the respective oxidation and reduction reactions. The current electrocatalyst of choice for hydrogen fed PEM fuel cells is platinum dispersed on a carbonaceous support. The oxidation of hydrogen at the anode is relatively facile. However, cathodic oxygen reduction and in particular splitting of the oxygen is much more difficult causing significant energy losses. The other major source of performance loss is membrane resistance to proton flow. Minimization of proton resistance is accomplished by using thin (approximately 50 µm) membranes.

Cheersonic’s fuel cell catalyst coating systems are uniquely suited for these challenging applications by creating highly uniform, repeatable, and durable coatings. Using the company’s patented ultrasonic spray head technology, it can spray uniformly and efficiently on proton exchange membranes and gas diffusion layers. Uniform catalyst coatings are deposited onto PEM fuel cells, GDLs, electrodes, various electrolyte membranes, and solid oxide fuel cells with suspensions containing carbon black inks, PTFE binder, ceramic slurries, platinum and other precious metals.

The advantages of Cheersonic’s fuel cell catalyst coating systems include:

1.Capable of coating PEMs with very small liquid sample sizes (only 10ml of catalyst solution necessary to coat multiple PEMs). Ideal for R&D phase.
2.Ultra-low flow rate capabilities
3.The spray beam is highly controllable for reliable and consistent results.
4.Significantly reduced machine downtime for maintenance
5.Spraying proton exchange membrane with high uniformity and good adhesion
6.Heating plate, vacuum plate or combination of heating plate and vacuum plate
7.Non-clogging atomized spray that does not deviate.

Chinese Website: Cheersonic Provides Professional Coating Solutions