Fuel cells are a promising technology for powering heavy-duty vehicles with hydrogen fuel. These vehicles emit only water vapor as exhaust and can be powered using renewable energy sources, making them a cleaner alternative to combustion-fueled vehicles. However, one of the challenges facing fuel cell-powered vehicles is the degradation of fuel cell components over time, leading to reduced performance and lifespan.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed an innovative method to study and understand how fuel cell components degrade over time. This research is crucial for improving the efficiency and longevity of fuel cells, making them more commercially viable for heavy-duty applications.
The study focused on tracking a specific particle within a fuel cell to observe how it degrades during use. By disassembling the fuel cell at regular intervals and using advanced electron microscopes, the researchers were able to pinpoint exactly when and where degradation occurred in the cathode electrode. This level of detail provided valuable insights into the aging process of fuel cells and will help in the development of new and improved materials for longer-lasting fuel cells.
The new experimental method developed by the researchers at Chalmers allows for a better understanding of the degradation processes at both the nano and micro levels. By studying the material degradation in real fuel cells rather than half-cells under different conditions, the researchers gained valuable insights into how fuel cells age and degrade over time.
The U.S. Department of Energy has identified improving the lifetime of fuel cells as a key goal for the commercial success of fuel cell-powered vehicles. Currently, fuel cell-powered trucks are unable to withstand the 20,000-30,000 hours of driving required over their lifetime. The research conducted at Chalmers University paves the way for developing fuel cells with longer lifespans, bringing fuel cell-powered vehicles closer to commercial viability.
The core of a fuel cell consists of three active layers – two electrodes (anode and cathode) with an ion-conducting membrane in between. When hydrogen and oxygen are added to the electrodes, an electrochemical process occurs, generating clean water and electricity to power the vehicle. Understanding how these components degrade over time is essential for improving the performance and longevity of fuel cells.
In conclusion, the research conducted at Chalmers University of Technology represents a significant step forward in the development of more efficient and longer-lasting fuel cells for heavy-duty hydrogen vehicles. By gaining a better understanding of the degradation processes within fuel cells, researchers can work towards developing new materials and technologies that will extend the lifespan of fuel cells and make hydrogen-powered vehicles a more viable alternative to combustion-fueled vehicles.