The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is the core component of hydrogen fuel cells and the place where electrochemical reactions occur inside the fuel cell. It is known as the "heart" of the fuel cell. The main function of MEA is to achieve the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen through catalytic reactions, thereby generating electric current and water

The structural composition of MEA

The typical structure of MEA consists of the following parts:

Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) : It is the core component of MEA, allowing protons to pass through while maintaining the separation of gases.

Catalyst layer (CL) : Usually composed of platinum or platinum alloy catalysts mixed with supporting materials (such as carbon black), it is coated on both sides of the proton exchange membrane.

Gas diffusion layer (GDL) : Usually made of carbon paper or carbon cloth, it has undergone hydrophobic treatment to ensure good electronic conductivity while allowing gas to pass through.

Sealing frame: Used to fix the MEA and prevent gas leakage

Working principle

In a hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen gas passes through the gas flow field on the anode plate to the anode, then through the gas diffusion layer to the anode catalytic layer, where it is decomposed into protons and electrons under the action of a catalyst. Protons reach the cathode through the proton exchange membrane, while electrons reach the cathode through the external circuit and react with oxygen to form water. This process generates current, which can be used to drive the load.

The preparation process of MEA

The preparation process of MEA includes the following several steps:

Catalyst slurry configuration: Mix the catalyst, support material and binder.

Coating: The catalyst slurry is coated onto the proton exchange membrane or the carrier polymer membrane.

Thermal transfer or thermal pressing: Transferring a catalyst layer onto a proton exchange membrane.

Sealing frame processing: Assemble the MEA with the sealing frame

Performance requirements

A high-performance MEA should have the following characteristics:

Minimize the gas transmission resistance.

Form good ion channels.

Form a good electronic channel.

It has good mechanical strength and thermal conductivity.

Proton exchange membranes have high proton conductivity

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