SBIR Phase I: Novel lightweight, low cost fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to produce low-cost gas diffusion electrodes with integrated flow fields for PEM fuel cells used to power next-generation vehicles. The proposed gas diffusion electrodes will increase both the power per unit mass and volume, and reduce the overall cost of PEM fuel cells. The proposed research would eliminate the need for intricate bipolar plates, reducing the weight, complexity and overall cost of the PEM fuel cell whilst still maintaining the performance. Our proposed, low-cost, gas diffusion electrodes with integrated flow fields for PEM fuel cells will increase both the power per unit mass and volume, and reduce the overall cost of the fuel cell. Success of this project will accelerate commercialization of fuel cell technology. Well over $1 billion has been spent on the development of fuel cell technology for next generation vehicles (NGVs) alone. The stakes are high and the potential market for viable, cost effective fuel cells is immense. Initial applications include micropower generators and alternative power systems for NGVs and portable electronic equipment.