components_of_pem_fuel_cells_an_overview

Fuel cells, as devices for direct conversion of the chemical energy of a fuel into<br>electricity by electrochemical reactions, are among the key enabling technologies for the transition<br>to a hydrogen-based economy. Among the various types of fuel cells, polymer electrolyte<br>membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are considered to be at the forefront for commercialization for<br>portable and transportation applications because of their high energy conversion efficiency and low<br>pollutant emission. Cost and durability of PEMFCs are the two major challenges that need to be<br>addressed to facilitate their commercialization. The properties of the membrane electrode assembly<br>(MEA) have a direct impact on both cost and durability of a PEMFC.