Catalyst layer optimization by surface tension control during ink formulation of membrane electrode assemblies in proton exchange membrane fuel cell

• Published in: Journal of power sources 2011-05, Vol.196 (10), p.4680-4685
• Main Authors: Bonifácio, Rafael Nogueira, Paschoal, José Octavio Armani, Linardi, Marcelo, Cuenca, Ricardo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Assemblies; Catalysts; Catalytic layer; Density; Deposition; Direct energy conversion and energy accumulation; Electrical engineering. Electrical power engineering; Electrical power engineering; Electrochemical conversion: primary and secondary batteries, fuel cells; Electrodes; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Equipments for energy generation and conversion: thermal, electrical, mechanical energy, etc; Exact sciences and technology; Fuel cells; Ink composition; Membrane electrode assembly; Membranes; Printing; Sieve printing; Surface tension
• ISSN: 0378-7753; 1873-2755
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2011.01.010

► We developed a compound stable over time to preparation of membrane electrode assemblies for proton exchange membrane fuel cell by sieve printing. ► We examine a mixture of solvents with low vapor pressure and high boiling point, and developed efficient catalyst and Nafion ionomers transportation at printing process. ► In this study the compound was characterized shown adequate proprieties to application on gas diffusions layer by sieve printing. ► The developed screen printing process using the compound is quick and reproductive reducing membrane electrode assemblies cost per quilowat. A cost effective production of the membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) is a crucial issue for the generation of electricity by proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The deposition of the exact catalyst content on the electrodes in a single printing step is desirable to save processing time and enable cost reduction. In this study, an innovative MEA production process by screen print is developed to produce high performance catalyst layers. The control of the surface tension of the catalyst ink is fundamental to allow the catalyst layer deposition in a single printing step. The electrodes prepared in this way show higher performance than those prepared in several steps. The optimal ink developed shows a viscosity of 2.75Pas, a total solid content of 33.76wt.%, a density of 1.294gcm−3, and tack value of 92 U.T.