Development and Analysis of Current Collectors for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Abstract

Hydrogen fuel cells are gaining popularity in power-consuming devices due to their zero-emission characteristics. However, ohmic resistance, which arises from the resistance to electron flow through the electrodes and external circuit, can cause reduced efficiency and voltage drops in a fuel cell. This research aims to develop current collector plates for proton exchange membrane fuel cells with optimal design, high electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity to mitigate ohmic resistance. Six different designs and five different materials—copper, brass, aluminum, stainless steel 316, and stainless steel 304—were considered for this purpose. The study involved experimental electrical conductivity and fuel cell performance tests to identify the best material and design for the current collector. Results indicated that brass and copper exhibited the least resistivity and favorable material characteristics. Consequently, all six current collector plate designs were developed using brass and copper with various machining and finishing processes. Performance testing on a fuel cell test station revealed that brass current collector plate design 5, featuring open ratios, demonstrated superior performance. Ultimately, the optimum design and material selection of the current collector plates have led to the development of fuel cells with reduced ohmic resistance and improved overall performance.

Keywords

• resistivity
• conductivity
• bipolar plates
• fuel cells
• current collectors
• thermopower system
• polarization curves