Non-planar architecture for proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract PEMFCs traditionally rely on the use of sculpted graphite bi-polar plates and planar MEAs. A PEMFC design based on a non-planar electrode–membrane assembly and using non-conventional collector plates is described in this paper. The design achieves high volumetric power densities while maintaining low contact resistance and structural integrity. Several new methods for supporting the MEA, for collecting current and for sealing are described. A technique and hardware developed for assembling the non-planar membrane–electrode assemblies are described and the performance of two prototype cells based on the new design is examined. Preliminary results demonstrating significant gains in volumetric power density are presented.