Knowledge to Enhance the Endurance of PEM fuel cells by Accelerated LIfetime Verification Experiments

Small scale stationary Combined Heat and Power (µ-CHP) generation is foreseen as a significant future market for fuel cells. Among the fuel cell types, the Proton Exchange Membrane (PEMFC) technology is by far dominating the small scale stationary demonst ration and field trials (~90%). The PEMFC has advantages related to high electric efficiency and excellent load following properties. A major hurdle to commercialization, however, is their insufficient lifetime under realistic operation conditions. KEEPEM ALIVE aims to establish improved understanding of degradation and failure mechanisms, accelerated stress test protocols, sensitivity matrix and lifetime prediction models for Low Temperature PEMFC to enable a lifetime of 40 000h at realistic operating con ditions for stationary systems, in compliance with performance and cost targets. Main KEEPEMALIVE targets are to establish a robust and efficient methodology to identify & quantify main factors (and interactions) causing degradation/failure when imposed t o stressing conditions and to characterise changes in PEMFC materials' properties and corresponding performance losses using statistical designed experiements. KEEPEMALIVE uses an integrated, iterative approach, using advanced statistical experiment desig n and result evaluation. Quantitative data obtained in situ from cell & stack tests under stressing conditions, are complemented by ex situ testing of materials, revealing corresponding changes in properties. Joint efforts of SMEs, energy companies and re search community, including links to other related European activities, will contribute to strengthening Europe's competiveness in this area.