A novel lightweight polymer electrolyte fuel cell stack for robot systems

Abstract

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are the most appropriate for energy sources of small robot applications. PEMFCs have superior power density and thermodynamic efficiency compared with direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). Furthermore, PEMFCs are lighter and smaller than DMFCs, which are very important factors in small robot power systems. Operating conditions and fabricating methods are of key importance to fuel cell performance and efficiency. In this study, analysis of pressure drop, concentration variation, deformation of GDL and electrolytes, and stack clamping pressure were completed by 500-watt polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell stacks. Several novel designs were discussed and will be continuously studied. © The Electrochemical Society.