Performance of fractional watt ion exchange membrane fuel cells

The effect of design and operational variables on the performance of one type of hydrogen‐oxygen ion exchange membrane fuel cell has been studied. Only the results of cells based on a phenolsulfonic acid formaldehyde type of ion exchange membrane containing one type of reinforcement are described. Platinum, palladium, iridium, and rhodium are adequate electrode materials for room‐temperature operation. Performance of cells with platinum gauze current collectors bonded to the cell surfaces was only slightly better than that with external contacts about 1 cm. apart. Open circuit voltages range from 0.9 to 1.1 v. (theoretical 1.23) depending on the catalyst. The typical current at 0.5 v. is 30 ma./sq. cm. Better cells have delivered 80 ma./sq. cm. at 0.5 v. Life tests indicate that these cells can be expected to deliver a minimum of about 40 amp.‐hr./sq. cm., when operated in the load range 8.5 to 230 ohm sq. cm., before failure of the electrolyte owing to pinhole formation. Current efficiency is very nearly 100%. Cell performance vs. temperature in the range 0° to 85°C. shows a maximum at about 55°C.