The widespread introduction of fuel cell technology requires both product and process innovations aimed at increasing product performance and/or reducing production costs. The central objective of the AluBiPEM research project presented here is therefore the use of aluminium as a substrate material for the key component bipolar plate (BPP). Specifically, the following objectives are being pursued as part of the project:
- Reduction of manufacturing costs by approx. 15 % compared to steel BPP for small quantities
- Increase productivity by approx. 20 % compared to conventional production technology
- Reduction of the system weight of a fuel cell stack by approx. 45 %
- Realisation of a liquid-cooled stack and performance of tests
- Realisation of an air-cooled stack and implementation of field tests
The central task of the fem research institute within the BMWK-funded joint project is the development of a corrosion-resistant galvanic layer structure for the electrical contacting of the bipolar plate with the gas diffusion layer. In addition, the fem is carrying out extensive characterisation of the substrate materials and layer systems.
Initial research results will be presented.