PEM cathode samples with acceptable conductivity, surface area, oxygen reduction activity and selectivity are tested in a lab-scale fuel cell test stand. Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs) are prepared by standard techniques developed in the HCRG using commercial Nafion membranes and Vulcan carbon supported Pt anodes.

Cathode materials  are compared against a commercial platinum cathode.  The computer interfaced PAR 263A potentiostat with a 2 A power booster allows for programmable voltage control and computer automated current data collection. 

The PEM testing capabilities include:

  • Evaluation of current density
  • Evaluation of overpotential
  • Characterization of deactivation as a result of:
    • Changes in carbon bonding
    • Nature of metal centers
    • Possibility of metal leaching
    • Changes in nano-structure

    Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) being prepared by decal method.