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About PEM Technology
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology has been in existence for decades and, thanks to the efforts of several large companies focused on the residential and automobile power markets, is relatively mature and refined. PEM fuel cells use a polymer electrolyte and porous carbon electrodes containing a platinum catalyst stacked in a planar configuration. They operate at relatively low temperatures (around 80oC, or 176oF) so they offer quick startup times and reduced wear on system components, which allows for greater durability. They require only hydrogen fuel, oxygen from the air and water to operate.
Depending on the system size and application, hydrogen fuel for Protonex systems is supplied from one of the following sources:
- Compressed hydrogen
- Metal hydrides
- Chemical hydrides
- Reformed methanol
 Protonex' Innovative Solution
Protonex' patented design and manufacturing processes provide several advantages compared to competing fuel cell solutions. Protonex fuel cell stacks utilize a unique molded, adhesive seal approach which provides much greater repeatability and robustness, whereas the traditional approach uses manual assembly of gasketed seals. In addition, Protonex' simple balance-of-plant subsystem driving the stack is based on commercially available, provencomponents. Key features and benefits of Protonex fuel cell systems include:
- Lightweight, high gravimetric power density (watts/kg)
- Compact, high volumetric power density (watts/liter)
- Highly repeatable manufacturing with consistent V-I curves
- Variety of output voltages and currents
- High shock/impact resistance for portable applications
- Extensive durability testing program
- Extended operating lifetimes--over 4,000 hours
- Wide operational temperature range (-20C to +50C)
Traditional Stack Manufacturing vs. Protonex Stack Manufacturing
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