Fuel Cell Testing Protocols: An International Perspective

An overview of international polymer-electrolyte fuel cell (PEMFC) test procedures is presented. This overview is the first step in the global harmonization of testing methods. Many techniques and procedures determining stack performance and durability are discussed. Each approach has differences that may or may not impact the data and data quality. Through experiments, it was found that differences in the results from two methods for measuring sequential polarization curves are minimal. Answers to questions regarding differences in the aging duty cycles need to be determined experimentally. The results of these experiments are expected to help the harmonization process, to facilitate the understanding of test results, and, possibly, to accelerate the commercialization of PEMFCs.JRC.F.2-Cleaner energ

Continuous CVD processing of multi-filament fibre coatings for the manufacture of ceramic matrix composites

A state-of-the-art facility for continuous CVD processing of multi-filament fibre tows was designed, constructed and commissioned. The installation includes a patented fibre tow transport system, which allows the deposition of single, multi or graded layer coatings onto each of the individual filaments of the yarn in one single equipment run. The present system has been successfully demonstrated depositing p-C and SiC coatings onto multi-filament fibre tows utilised in the fabrication of Ceramic Matrix Composites. The technique developed was also used in the protection of mono-filament optical fibres, for sensing applications

Continuous CVD Processing of Multi-Filament Fibre Coatings for the Manufacture of Ceramic Matrix Composites.

Abstract not availableJRC.(IAM)-Institute For Advanced Material

PEM fuel cell stack testing in the framework of an EU-harmonized fuel cell testing protocol: Results for an 11kW stack

Fuel cell testing and standardization thematic network (FCTESTNET) was a Thematic Network funded by the European Commission under the FifthFramework Program(FP5), whichwascomprised of 55 European partners. The project concluded in 2006 and the main output was the collection and compilation of agreed testing procedures for different fuel cell technologies (PEM, SOFC, MCFC), applications (stationary, portable, transport), as well as balance of plant. Experimental validation of such testing procedures is the next necessary step for obtaining reliable harmonized testing procedures. The Joint Research Centre (JRC), Institute for Energy (IE) has started the validation process on selected PEM testing procedures. One of the FCTESTNET procedures applied at JRCIE is the polarization curve for a PEM stack. Results show that the harmonization of some parameters, such as the acquisition and equilibrium time for each value of the current density, and the control of the stack coolant temperature, is a necessary action for an objective and trustworthy comparison of the performance data.JRC.F.2-Cleaner energie

Assessment of PEFC Performance by Applying Harmonized Testing Procedure

The performance of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEFC) stacks is assessed in terms of polarization curve measurements under laboratory conditions by applying a harmonized testing procedure. Harmonization at the level of testing procedures allows for an objective and trustworthy comparison of performance data. The harmonization of the procedure took place among the 55 partners of the Fuel Cell Testing and Standardization Network (FCTESTNET). Selected testing procedures are currently validated through experimental campaigns in the successor project (Fuel Cell Testing, Safety and Quality Assurance, FCTESQA) involving world class research laboratories from Europe, US, China, and Korea. The present study reports the results of a test of the campaign for the performance assessment of a PEFC power stack carried out by JRC applying the harmonized procedure for validation. Following the procedure, the test inputs and outputs are subjected to stability checks a priori to and during the actual polarization curve measurement step of the test. The assessment of the stack performance is based on a statistical approach of the test outputs which includes the calculation of averages, measurement range, (relative) standard deviation and standard error as well as of a stability parameter. The study demonstrates the necessity of harmonized testing procedures and of a harmonized methodology of presenting the test results in a commonly agreed format to provide a comprehensive performance assessment for PEFC stacks.JRC.F.2-Cleaner energ