Effect of hydrophilic 2-D layered minerals in cathode catalyst layers on performance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

In polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell, the poor power performance of hydrocarbon (HC)-based membranes in low relative humidity conditions arises from the materials’ inherently inadequate proton conductivity under water-deficient conditions. In this study, we introduce boehmite into the catalyst layer as a water retention material to enhance the power performance of a HC-based membrane/electrode assembly (MEA) in low RH conditions. The addition of well-dispersed boehmite into the CCL increased the water concentration and consequently accelerated water back diffusion to the MEA at a low RH. The power performance also improved upon the addition of an optimal percent content of boehmite.