components_of_pem_fuel_cells_an_overview

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