一、 Overview

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) are efficient and clean energy conversion devices widely used in transportation and power storage. Metal bipolar plates, as critical structural components in PEMFCs, play a vital role in electrical, mechanical, and chemical performance. Recent research has focused on addressing challenges such as corrosion, conductivity, and mechanical strength during long-term operation. This paper reviews recent advancements in metal bipolar plates, with a focus on material selection, surface modification, manufacturing techniques, and performance optimization. By comparing the advantages and disadvantages of various metal-based materials, it provides valuable insights for future development of bipolar plates in hydrogen fuel cells.

二、 Introduction

Hydrogen fuel cells are a key focus in the field of clean energy, particularly for alternative fuels and carbon emission reduction. The basic principle involves generating electricity, heat, and water through the reaction of hydrogen and oxygen. Metal bipolar plates (BPS), critical components in fuel cells, connect individual cells and serve functions such as conductivity, gas distribution, fluid transport, and corrosion resistance.

The performance of metal bipolar plates directly impacts the efficiency, lifespan, and cost of hydrogen fuel cells. Thus, selecting suitable materials and optimizing their design and manufacturing processes are essential for improving fuel cell pertormance. Recent research has focused on enhancing the electrochemical stability, mechanical strength,conductivity, and corrosion resistance of these plates.

三、 Material Selection for Metal Bipolar Plates

The choice of materials for metal bipolar plates is a key factor affecting the performance of hydrogen fuel cells. Metal bipolar plates are generally categorized into two types: noble metal-based materials (e.g., platinum) and non-noble metal-based materials (e.g.. stainless steel, titanium alloys). Below is a summary of recent advancements in commonly used metal materials.

Figure 1. 

四、 Manufacturing Technology

The manufacturing process of metal bipolar plates in hydrogen fuel cells directly affects their performance and cost. In recent years, advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing and laser processing have made the design and production of metal bipolar plates more flexible and efficient.

Figure 2. 

五、 Surface Modification of Metal Bipolar Plates

Surface modification of metal bipolar plates is a key approach to enhance their performance. Common methods include coating, nitriding, and plasma treatment, which effectively improve corrosion resistance, conductivity, and mechanical strength.

Figure 3. 

六、 Performance Optimization

The optimization of metal bipolar plate performance is central to research, focusing on improving conductivity, corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and thermal conductivity. Optimizing these properties directly enhances the overall efficiency and lifespan of hydrogen fuel cells.

Figure 4. 

七、 Coating Technology for Metal Bipolar Plates

Coating technology enhances metal bipolar plates by improving corrosion resistance, conductivity, and durability, extending lifespan and reducing costs. Advances in specialized coatings have broadened their applications.

Figure 5. 

八、 Conclusion

Metal bipolar plates play a crucial role in hydrogen fuel cells. Recent advancements in materials science, surface treatment, and manufacturing processes have significantly improved their performance. However, challenges such as cost, corrosion resistance, and conductivity remain. Future research should focus on material optimization, process innovation, and overall performance enhancement. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, metal bipolar plates are expected to play an even more important role in the widespread application of hydrogen fuel cells.

Figure 6. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Schematic

Figure 7. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Working Principle Schematic

Figure 8. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Application Schematic

九、 Reference

[1] Pizzetti, F., et al. (2020) ."Enhancement of Corrosion Resistance of Stainless Steel Bipolar Plates for PEM Fuel Cells." Journal of Materials Science & Technology, 36(1), 125-134.

[2] Bhat, I., et al. (2021). "Titanium Alloys for PEM Fuel Cell Bipolar Plates: Properties and Performance." International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 46(15), 9685-9695.

[3] Wang, Z., et al. (2022). "Improvement of Conductivity and Corrosion Resistance of Aluminum Alloys for PEM Fuel Cells." Materials Science and Engineering: B, 276, 115527.

[4] Liu, H., et al. (2023). "Corrosion and Performance of Magnesium Alloys for PEM Fuel Cell Bipolar Plates." Corrosion Science, 198, 110061.

[5] Zhou, M., et al. (2020). "Development of Carbon Coatings for PEM Fuel Cell Bipolar Plates." Journal of Power Sources, 451, 227738.

[6] Yao, X., et al. (2021). "Surface Nitride Treatment of Stainless Steel Bipolar Plates for PEM Fuel Cells." Journal of Electrochemical Society, 168(6), 064501.

[7] Lee, S., et al. (2023). "Plasma Surface Modification of Stainless Steel Bipolar Plates for PEM Fuel Cells." Surface and Coatings Technology, 425, 127771.

[8] Yang, J., et al. (2022). "Additive Manufacturing of Metal Bipolar Plates for PEM Fuel Cells: Current Status and Future Prospects." Journal of Energy Storage, 43, 103395.

[9] Jiang, J., et al. (2023). "Laser Processing of Metal Bipolar Plates for Fuel Cells: Advances and Challenges." Journal of Manufacturing Processes, 88, 111-123.

[10] Li, Q., et al. (2023). "Optimization of Electrical Conductivity of Metal Bipolar Plates in PEM Fuel Cells." Journal of Materials Science, 58(4), 2455-2464.

[11] Zhang, T., et al. (2023). "Corrosion Resistance of Metal Bipolar Plates in PEM Fuel Cells: Mechanisms and Improvement Strategies." Corrosion Reviews, 41(2), 133-146

[12] https://h2.in-en.com/html/h2-2431785.shtml

[13] https://www.materialsnet.com.tw/DocView.aspx?id=17123

[14] https://www.cmpe360.com/p/174889