A new type of proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell has been developed that is capable of maintaining its hydration.

Innovation magazine reports that experts have developed the new self-humidifying technique that means the fuel cell can keep sufficient water to maintain its proton conductivity.

Scientists from the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and PEM fuel cell supplier GasHub Technology discovered that maintaining the hydration of the Nafion material at the anode can help to significantly improve the performance of a fuel cell without needing outside humidification.

It is hoped that the new technique can help to increase the efficacy of fuel cells and deliver greater efficiency.

This technology has been put into GasHub's air-breathing PEM fuel cell stack, the first of its kind in the world, which has the benefits of being light and compact compared to traditional fuel cell stacks.

Source:

Self-Hydrating PEM Fuel Cell, 7/08/07
http://www.innovationmagazine.com/innovation/volumes/v7n3/coverstory3.shtml

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