Gas Diffusion Layer Dynamics in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Summary
Proton exchange membrane fuel cells rely on gas diffusion layers (GDLs) to facilitate the transport of reactant gases, remove product water and provide electrical conduction between the bipolar plate and catalyst layer. The GDL typically comprises a macroporous substrate and a thin microporous layer (MPL), each engineered to balance hydrophobic and hydrophilic pathways. GDL dynamics encompass the interplay of gas permeability, liquid water management and mechanical stability under variable operating conditions. Optimising pore size distribution, wettability gradients and structural anisotropy is critical to mitigate flooding at high current densities and to sustain uniform gas distribution. Recent advances in imaging and computational modelling have enhanced insight into multiphase flow within the porous network, revealing that graded porosity and tailored hydrophobic treatments can significantly improve oxygen transport and water evacuation. Enhanced GDL designs promise to reduce mass transport losses, extend component longevity and lower cost barriers, thereby accelerating the deployment of fuel cells in automotive and stationary power applications.
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Gas Diffusion Layer Dynamics in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in gas diffusion layer dynamics in proton exchange membrane fuel cells across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL): A porous assembly that facilitates reactant gas transport to catalyst sites, provides electrical conduction and aids water removal.
Microporous Layer (MPL): A thin coating on the GDL substrate with smaller pore sizes, designed to improve water management and reduce contact resistance.
Hydrophobicity: The tendency of a surface to repel water, often enhanced by PTFE or fluorination to prevent liquid water accumulation.
Porosity: The fraction of void space within the GDL structure, influencing gas permeability and capillary-driven water transport.
Water flooding: The blockage of gas pathways by liquid water in the GDL or catalyst layer, leading to reduced fuel cell performance.
References
- Similarities and Differences between Gas Diffusion Layers Used in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell and Water Electrolysis for Material and Mass Transport. Advanced Science (2024).
- Patterned hydrophobic gas diffusion layers for enhanced water management in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Chemical Engineering Journal (2024).
- Alternative architectures and materials for PEMFC gas diffusion layers: A review and outlook. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (2022).
- Gas Diffusion Layer for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: A Review. Materials (2022).
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