A compact and high-power next-generation fuel cell stack is being developed with the aim of commercial production in the 2010's . Compared to the former stacks, this stack realizes double the power density, long life time, and cost reduction.
Special Features
- High power, 2X power density
The use of a thin metal separator allows for reduced size, and the improved polymer electrolyte membrane makes for enhanced power generation, which, compared with the 2005 model, achieves double the power density. Maximum power for the fuel cell stack itself has been augmented by 40 kW, reaching a total of 130 kW. As a result, the stack can potentially maintains the long cruising range of fuel-cell vehicles, while also enabling its application to larger vehicles. - Platinum usage halved
Platinum usage of the MEA* has been reduced by half through improving the electrode catalyst, thus also significantly reducing cost.
- * MEA (Membrane Electrode Assembly): the structure which is united with electrode on the both side of polymer electrolyte membrane, making electrochemical reaction as the main parts of fuel cell.
Features of the Components
- Equipped with thin metal separator
Cell pitch is reduced by making the separator - which separates hydrogen, air, and cooling water with stamped thin metal plate. This has also served to simultaneously increase production efficiency and reduce cost. In addition, the separator's surface is treated, enabling for high resistance to corrosion and dynamic electrical conductive properties.
- Improved MEA
The amount of water and hydrogen ions in the polymer electrolyte membrane was increased to make movement by hydrogen ions easier and ameliorate electrical power generation. Furthermore, by revising the construction of the electrode catalyst layer, reaction to catalyst decay has been curbed and durability has been improved. Platinum usage has also been halved.
