About the project
Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are zero-CO2 power sources with high potential for achieving carbon neutrality. Their performance, durability, weight, and cost are strongly influenced by key components: electrocatalysts, membrane-electrode assemblies, and bipolar plates. Our project addresses the holistic optimization of PEMFCs, focusing on reducing critical raw material (CRM) usage and environmental impact. The consortium has defined four ambitious objectives: (1) develop advanced electrocatalysts to minimize Pt content; (2) design lightweight, durable metal bipolar plates with corrosion-resistant coatings; (3) create thinner and/or PFS-free membranes to enhance performance and safety; (4) optimize stack integration for superior efficiency and reliability.
The NEXT-PEMFC project addresses key PEM fuel cell challenges, including limited durability under cyclic loads, high platinum catalyst costs, performance loss at low humidity and high temperature, and difficulties in scaling advanced materials to full MEAs. Our approach combines nanostructured, low-Pt catalysts with reinforced membranes and hierarchical electrode architectures to enhance activity, proton conductivity, water management, and stability. Integrated multi-scale characterization links material design to degradation mechanisms, while system-level optimization ensures performance, reproducibility, and scalability. This integrated strategy advances PEMFC technology beyond the state of the art, enabling higher efficiency, longer lifetime, and lower cost.
