This portal page aggregates information relevant to Fuel Cell Bipolar plates.
Bipolar plates are conductive plates in a
fuel cell stack that act as an anode for one cell and a cathode for the next
cell. Bipolar plates can be made of metal, carbon or conductive composite polymer
(usually incorporating carbon). Polymer (plastic plates are also in development).
Bipolar plates have a number of functions within the
fuel cell stack:
- Separating gases between cells (the reaction gases and water exhaust)
- Providing a conductive medium between the anode and cathode
- Providing a flow field channel for the reaction gases
- A solid structure for the stack
- Transferring heat out of the cell
Bipolar plates require the following characteristics:
- Impermeable to gases (in a PEM cell -
hydrogen and oxygen)
- Good electrical conductivity
- A balance between conductivity, strength, size and weight – weight is more
of concern for transportation and portable applications
- Resistance to corrosion
- Easy to
manufacture in large quantities
- The flow field must provide uniform distribution of the reaction gases over
the active area to ensure even and efficient power production
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