StackTest - Development of PEMFC Stack Reference Test Procedures for Industry

The harmonization of test procedures for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is of high interest for industry and academia. Up to the present day, PEMFC tests from test benches in different institutions are hardly comparable due to variations in test procedure and test equipment. This incomparability is clearly recognizable in single cells, but has even higher influence on stacks. The EU funded projects FCTESQA and FCTESTNET have harmonized the test procedures on the single cell level, but there is still a lack regarding the stack level. Therefore, a comparative analysis of various developments for components and stack design is not possible in the majority of cases. To achieve comparable results in the industry, in EU funded projects as well as in the scientific literature, it is mandatory to use harmonized test procedures. The StackTest project develops and validates these test procedures for PEMFC stacks with respect to performance, durability and safety. Therefore, generic test modules are prepared, defining the test procedures in general including test bench requirements, measurement uncertainties, recommendations for the data recording, for the data analysis and for the variation of the parameters during a procedure. Test modules are prepared for: - Stack sensitivity to pressure, temperature, humidity and stoichiometry - Fuel and oxidant composition - Ambient conditions and freeze start - Polarization curve - Electrochemical methods (CV, EIS, gas cross over) - Dead end operation on the anode side - Dynamic load cycling - Shaking and vibrations during operation - Overload of pressure, temperature and electric power Based on these test modules, application specific test programs are defined, including parameter sets adjusted to the application of the examined stack. Thereby, the parameters are defined for automotive, stationary and portable applications. Test programs in StackTest are for example: - Electrical and thermal cycling - Performance Mapping etc