Effect of Micro Porous Layer on Membrane Hydration Path under Low Humidity Operation of PEMFC

Abstract

Micro porous layer (MPL) effects on membrane hydration under a low-humidity condition were examined in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) using nuclei-labeling magnetic resonance imaging (NL-MRI). This technique enables investigation of the effects of three water sources--humidification water at the cathode, humidification water at the anode, and water generated through electrochemical reactions--on membrane hydration. Results show that MPL increases the membrane water contents at the cathode side. Furthermore, the MPL at the cathode side enhances membrane hydration by water generated by the electrochemical reaction and interferes with membrane hydration of humidification water at the anode.