Fuel Cell Subsystems and Components
As recommended by the 2004 National Research Council report, the program continues to increase its support for high-risk R&D that can lead to breakthroughs in fuel cell materials and component designs that lower costs, improve durability, and increase reliability. As such, it focuses its efforts on research and development of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells, including fuel cell stack components (membranes, membrane electrode assemblies, bipolar plates, and advanced catalysts), fuel processors for stationary applications, and balance-of-plant components.
The status of DOE's fuel cell R&D projects is detailed in the Annual Progress Report.
Test protocols to assess the performance and durability of fuel cell components intended for automotive applications are found in the DOE Cell Component Accelerated Stress Test Protocols for PEM Fuel Cells report (PDF 229 KB). Download Adobe Reader.